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Reclaiming Lambrusco: Building Modern Luxury with Saint Enzo

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 16:08:00 GMT

In this episode, we sit down with Myisha Moore, co-founder and CMO of Saint Enzo, a luxury modern Lambrusco redefining howand whywe celebrate.

Crafted from 100% organic Lambrusco Grasparossa, produced entirely in Italy with no additives or cellar manipulation, Saint Enzo challenges decades of misconceptions around Lambrusco. Launched in August 2025, the brand sold out its first release within minutes, signaling a powerful shift in how consumers think about sparkling wine beyond Champagne.

This conversation explores category repositioning luxury and what it really takes to build a culturally relevant brand from the ground up.

https://www.saintenzo.com/

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Rethinking Restaurant Expectations with Kevin Tyler

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 13:45:00 GMT

In this episode, were joined by Kevin - marketing and branding consultant, writer, photographer, and the voice behind The Full Belly Blogger. As a self-described enthusiastic diner, Kevin brings a thoughtful, experience-driven perspective to conversations about food, culture, and hospitality.

Our discussion centers on restaurant expectations how theyre formed, who sets them, and how they can unfairly shape the way diners experience and evaluate restaurants. We spend meaningful time unpacking expectations placed on Black restaurants, including how bias, double standards, and cultural misunderstandings can influence reviews, and customer behavior.

Kevin shares insights from his work as a James Beard Judge, his background in branding, and his lived experience as a diner and writer, offering nuance around what excellence really means and why context matters in hospitality.

https://www.instagram.com/thefullbellyblogger/

https://thefullbellyblogger.substack.com/

Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com

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Sarita @VineMeUp

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Rose Ballantine of Revana Estate

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 13:05:00 GMT

At just 27, Rose Ballantine is shaping the future of Napa Valley wine. Born and raised in Napa but outside the world of vineyards Roses path to winemaking was anything but conventional. From changing majors 13 times in college to discovering a UC Davis wine course by accident, she embarked on a global winemaking journey spanning three continents. Today, she leads Revana Estate, working alongside Napa legend Thomas Rivers Brown, with the creative freedom to define Napa for a new generation.

https://www.revanawine.com/

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https://whitehalllane.com/

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Legacy and Leadership with Katie Leonardini of Whitehall Lane Winery

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Swirl Suite, Sarita and Glynis sits down with Katie Leonardini, part of the family behind the iconic Whitehall Lane Winery in Napa Valley. Katie shares what it means to grow up in a multigenerational wine family, how she balances honoring tradition with embracing innovation, and why sustainability and hospitality are at the heart of everything her team does.

We talk Napa history, cabernet culture, and the real work behind running a family-owned winery in a region filled with major corporate players. Katie opens up about memorable vintages, the beauty and chaos of harvest, and the lessons the vineyard teaches her year after year.

Youll also hear a Thanksgiving-themed conversation.

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Kendall Anderson’s Playbook for Virginia Wine

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:37:00 GMT

This week on The Swirl Suite, Sarita sits down with Kendall Anderson, a former football player turned Virginia winemaker whos redefining what it means to follow your passion. In this episode, Kendall opens up about his unexpected journey from the world of sports to the art of winemaking. Youll hear how he fell in love with Virginia wine, the challenges he faced breaking into the industry, and what it means to represent a new wave of winemakers pushing the region forward.

https://www.instagram.com/ka_dajuiceman/

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Wine Etiquette with Ease: Service, Style, and a Little Sass with Marissa Knodel

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 14:08:00 GMT

This week on The Swirl Suite, Sarita sits down with wine professional Marissa Knodel for a lively and honest conversation about wine etiquette whats still relevant, whats outdated, and how to navigate wine culture with confidence and grace.

From the small taste before pouring to gifting bottles at dinner parties, Marissa shares her insider service perspective and gives listeners practical (and funny) ways to handle tricky wine moments without feeling intimidated. Whether youre a sommelier, a dinner host, or the friend who always brings the wine, this episode will help you sip smarter and stress less.

Symphony Vines de Noire

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/symphony-vins-de-noire-tickets-1616993343619?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf16WVPRV-Gg4CDcaPl_6q8HQ-ISiyRsDjOpptOq72KJlyGI5OZx31oOZVL_Q_aem_TUKRWiuDjW8sr5i_7jKs-g

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Wine and Sports with Tammy Gordon

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 14:54:00 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, we sit down with Tammy Gordon, Washington, DCbased public relations consultant and co-founder of Vin Vitalit, a growing community of women in wine. With a background that includes being a spokesperson for the Office of Champagne, advising Black Wine Professionals, and holding a WSET Level 2 certification (while proudly dodging Level 3), Tammy brings a sharp, honest perspective on how the wine industry can become more accessible, inclusive, and media-savvy.

We talk about her journey into wine, founding Women in Wine DC, her love of womens sports, and how the wine world can learn a thing or two from the rise of visibility in womens athletics.

Plus, Tammy shares what PR strategies wine professionals often miss, and how we can better engage diverse audiences.

Follow Tammy on Instagram @tammygordon for her takes on food, wine, travel, and sports.

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Closing One Chapter, Opening Another w Loris The Somm

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 10:23:00 GMT

As we prepare to wrap up The Swirl Suite at the end of this year, each remaining episode is a celebration of the voices, stories, and passions that have shaped our wine world. This week, Sarita sits down with Loris, a sommelier and actor, whose charisma, hustle, and creative perspective have made waves in the wine space and beyond.

In this episode, we talk about:
The intersection of wine and performance
Loriss journey as both a sommelier and actor and what came first
Building a personal brand that blends wine, storytelling, and lifestyle
Fried vs roasted chicken (yes, we went there)
Travel, taste, and Loriss take on wine education
Celebrity wine. Do they belong here?

Plus: rapid-fire This or That questions, honest takes on wine trends, and reflections on what it means to show up in the wine world as your full self.

https://www.instagram.com/loristhesomm/

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Culinary Travels with Dr. Nadeen White

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 20:56:00 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, we welcome back travel expert, physician, and wine enthusiast Dr. Nadeen White, the dynamic force behind The Sophisticated Life and Culinary Travels.

Nadeen joins us to share how her love of travel, culture, and cuisine fuels her storytelling, from sipping wine in South Africa to indulging in street food across Asia.

https://drnadeenwhite.com/

https://www.instagram.com/culinarytravels_thesophislife/

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The Wines of California with Elaine Chukan Brown

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 15:50:00 GMT

In this episode of the Swirl Suite, we welcome Elaine Chukan Brownwriter, speaker, educator, and the creative force behind the Wine, Library series. Known for their poetic storytelling and deep-rooted respect for land and people, Elaine shares the journey behind the debut volume, The Wines of California.

We dive into the richness of Californias wine regions beyond the headlines, exploring the growers, the climate, the cultural threads, and the complex histories that shape the glass. From Mendocino to Santa Barbara, this episode is an invitation to look at wine not just as a beverage, but as a living archive of community, geography, and intention.

https://www.instagram.com/hawk_wakawaka/

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How NOT To Start a Damn Brewery with Kelly Meyer

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 10:30:11 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, we dive into the gritty and hilarious realities of the craft beer world with special guest Kelly Meyer, author of "How NOT to Start a Damn Brewery: Ten Business Lessons From the Front Lines of the Craft Beer Industry." A former brewery owner turned brutally honest storyteller, Kelly shares his hard-earned wisdom, epic missteps, and the behind-the-scenes chaos most people never see in the beer business.

From passion projects gone wrong to the lessons every beverage entrepreneur needs to hear, Kelly gets candid about what really happens when the beer dreams meet business reality. If youve ever considered starting your own beverage brandor just love an honest conversation over a cold drink, this ones for you.

https://www.amazon.com/How-NOT-Start-Damn-Brewery/dp/B09MGKQ88Y/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.uAKS30JPMbhr6pque7P4VusgYLuZxffnjpSPJ84YiWjGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.QHOmUFcgx6KwKR1XXOYzk3VjDyzyV7QXS-jSJ8JkeHg&dib_tag=se&qid=1750788751&refinements=p_27%3Akelly+kfm+Meyer&s=books&sr=1-1

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Swirl Suite Live on Juneteenth with Chrishon Lampley

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 18:42:00 GMT

Juneteenth with Chrishon of Love Cork Screw was unforgettable. We celebrated Blackness with every sip, every bite, and every storywine, food, and freedom the perfect trio.

https://thelampley.com/

Watch live on Patreon

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A Legacy in Every Glass – A Conversation with Niki & Aly Wente

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 13:49:00 GMT

In this episode of the Swirl Suite, we're honored to sit down with Niki and Aly Wente, fifth-generation members of the iconic Wente Family Vineyards, Americas oldest continuously operated family-owned winery. As cousins, collaborators, and changemakers, Niki and Aly bring fresh perspectives to a legacy brand while staying grounded in over 140 years of winemaking history.

https://wentevineyards.com/

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wine-sisters-book-club/id1792737894

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Pivots, Passion & Power Moves with Chrishon Lampley

Thu, 22 May 2025 13:17:00 GMT

In this episode of the Swirl Suite, we sit down with the powerhouse behind Love Cork Screw, Chrishon Lampley. From art curator to wine mogul, Chrishon walks us through the many pivots of her inspiring career in wine and sales. We talk about what it takes to build a brand from scratch, maintain momentum in a competitive industry, and the strategic moves that landed her wine bottles on shelves in major retail stores across the country.

Chrishon opens up about the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, her evolution as a businesswoman, and how she continues to disrupt the wine industry as a Black woman creating space for herself and others at the table.

https://www.instagram.com/lovecorkscrew/

Meet Chrishon and Swirl Suite on Juneteenth

https://thewineconcierge.co/products/juneteenth-wine-tasting-podcast-with-chrishon-lampley

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Afro Wine Week with Tuanni Price

Thu, 15 May 2025 13:17:00 GMT

In this special episode, the Swirl Suite welcomes back long-time friend and returning guest Tuanni Price. Tuanni shares insights into the upcoming Afro Wine Week South Africa, a transformative event aimed at creating wealth, inclusion, and opportunity for people of color in the global wine industry.

Connect with Tuanni Price

Instagram: @zuriwinetasting
Afro Wine Week Website: afrowineweek.com

Swirl Suite Juneteenth Rooftop Tasting with Chrishon Lampley

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Hip-Hop & Wine Culture with Randi Brady of Diversified Vines

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 22:21:00 GMT

In this episode of Swirl Suite, we sit down with Randi Brady, founder of Diversified Vines, a unique platform blending the worlds of hip-hop and wine. Randi, a WSET-certified wine enthusiast, shares how her passion for music, food and wine led to the creation of experiences that make wine education more inclusive, approachable, and culturally connected. From curating wine events with hip-hop storytelling, Randi is redefining how people engage with wine.

https://www.diversifiedvines.com/

https://www.instagram.com/diversifiedvines/

Join our Patreon to watch the episode:

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Lisa Lee of Tasting Room on 9th

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 09:48:00 GMT

Lisa Lee, originally from the Washington D.C. area, believes that meals connect people and that there is nothing more sacred than the time spent around a table with those you love. Lee has been a student of hospitality for over a decade. Engulfing herself in education and the science behind every decision made in restaurants has prepared her for the moment that was coming.

After deciding that she wanted to formally study wine, Lee completed The Wine and Spirits Education Trusts wine programs 1-3, awarded with merit, within a single year. Once finished, Lee realized that where she wanted to work did not exist here in Myrtle Beach. After a few experiences in other establishments, Lee realized that if she wanted something to be done well, she was going to have to create it. Not wanting to relocate, Lee began to create the concept that would become The Tasting Room. A high end space with impeccable service, while being inclusive and inviting, does not find its home easily. Eventually, The Tasting Room decided on a lease within a downtown neighborhood that feels as though it was always meant to be. The newly envisioned Downtown Myrtle Beach area of The Art and Innovation District is the perfect location and home for a concept made for this exact community.

https://thetastingroomon9th.com/

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From Recipe to Retail: Christi Dorsey of Taste Symmetry Consulting

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:27:00 GMT

Christi Dorsey is the Founder of Taste Symmetry Consulting, a boutique consulting company specializing in nutrition analysis, food labeling, and regulatory support for small food businesses. With her tailored consulting services, she helps entrepreneurs turn their concepts into shelf-ready products and ensures that they meet all necessary food safety standards. Her expertise covers everything from concept validation to packaging, branding, and market positioning, making her a valuable partner for businesses at any stage of development and her goal is to empower businesses to thrive in todays competitive food industry landscape.

https://www.tastesymmetry.com/

Watch the full episode on Patreon:

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Janet Cam on Fine Dining, Wine, & Restaurant Evolution

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 15:57:00 GMT

Janet Cam is best known as the founder and co-proprietor of LePavillon restaurant, the

first nouvelle cuisine restaurant in America, honored with The Wine Spectators Grand

Award. She was the Managing Director of the legendary Lutce in New York

orchestrating the renovation and revival of the iconic French restaurant. She is included

in Whos Who in Americas Restaurants. Janet Cam provides consulting services to

restaurant and hospitality businesses through a collaborative process to build profitable

ventures from the ground up and redevelops existing businesses into fresh, competitive

operations with a focus on wine and beverage programs. Janet currently serves on the Smithsonian National Museum of American Historys Kitchen Cabinet, an advisory board made up of leaders in food scholarship and culinary history to help the museum shape and expand its research, collections, programs, and exhibitions related to food and beverage history. She is a former judge for the James Beard Foundation Awards and a longstanding member of Les Dames dEscoffier (Washington, DC, Los Angeles and New York). Janet has mentored hospitality students on their Capstone Projects for Georgetown University and University of Maryland relating to Chinese restaurants. Conducting wine tastings for public and private clients, restaurants, as well as the Hill Center in Washington, DC she seamlessly pairs food and wine with a specialty in European wines and Asian food. WSET II with Distinction. In country studies for wine and food of (Burgundy, Loire, Champagne, Mosel, Rhine, Kamptal, Piemonte, Spain). In country focus on cuisines of Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, Suzhou and Bangkok.

Janet has been invited to create the first wine program for the University of Maryland

to launch in 2025.

Watch the full episode on Patreon

https://www.patreon.com/posts/paving-way-janet-125293066?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

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Exploring Wine, Food, and Travel with Tish Around Town

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 10:17:00 GMT

In this episode of the Swirl Suite Podcast, we welcome Tish Around Town, a dynamic travel and wine enthusiast who curates unforgettable experiences centered around wine, food, and culture. From hosting immersive wine events to leading global travel adventures, Tish shares her journey, insights, and tips for those looking to explore the world through a flavorful lens.

https://tisharoundtown.com/

Join our Patreon to watch the full episode:

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Wine Organizations

https://theveraisonproject.com/

https://www.wineunify.org/

https://www.therootsfund.org/

https://winetrailsandwanderlust.com/2024/10/25/welcome-to-the-oneoverse/

https://www.instagram.com/womenofwinedc/?hl=en

https://www.batonnageforum.com/

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Justin Trabue of Ward Four Wines

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 16:45:00 GMT

DC native Justin Trabue of Ward Four Wines joins us for an incredible conversation about her journey as a new winemaker. We dive into how she's preparing for harvest, navigating challenges in the industry, and the potential impact of tariffs.

This is a must-watch for wine lovers and industry insiders alike!

https://www.wardfourwines.com/

Join our Patreon to watch the full episode now!

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The Winemakers Playbook Event

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winemakers-playbook-harvesting-financial-business-strategies-tickets-1250300736159?aff=oddtdtcreator

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A Conversation about DEI with Ikimi Dubose Woodson of The Roots Fund

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 11:40:00 GMT

In this powerful and timely episode of Swirl Suite, we sit down with Ikimi Dubose Woodson, co-founder and executive director of The Roots Fund, to have a candid conversation about the evolving landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the wine industry. With increasing backlash and companies pulling back on DEI initiatives, we ask the tough question Is DEI dead?

Ikimi shares how these shifts are directly impacting The Roots Fund and the vital work they do to support and uplift BIPOC talent in wine. We also dig into how the broader wine industry is responding (or failing to respond) to the changing tides, and what this all means for the future of equitable access and representation in wine.

This is an unfiltered discussion about accountability, real change, and what happens when companies use DEI as a buzzword instead of a commitment.

Learn more about The Roots Fund: https://www.therootsfund.org

Follow Ikimi Dubose Woodson on Instagram: @therootsfund

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Sarita @VineMeUp

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Rosé Revolution

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 10:00:24 GMT

In this special episode of the Swirl Suite, Tanisha sits down with the brilliant minds behind Ros Revolution, authors Rasmus Emborg and Jens Honor. Together, they explore how ros has evolved from a seasonal afterthought to a global phenomenon with cultural influence far beyond the bottle. From Provence to pool parties, this conversation uncorks the history, innovation, and passion fueling the pink wine movement.

https://www.amazon.com/Ros%C3%A9-Revolution-Rasmus-Emborg/dp/1623716624

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Sipping, Sharing & Thriving with Nicole Kearney

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 13:22:00 GMT

In this special episode of Swirl Suite, were welcoming back a true friend of the podcastNicole Kearney, founder and winemaker of Sip & Share Wines. Nicole has been blazing trails in the wine industry for years, creating handcrafted, boutique wines with community and inclusivity at the heart of her brand.

Together, we dive into the realities of running a Black-owned wine business, the legacy of Black winemakers in the industry, and the importance of holding the door open for the next generation. Of course, we also have a good ol kikibecause whats a Swirl Suite episode without some laughs and real talk?

In This Episode, We Discuss:
Nicoles journey from writer to winemaker
Building an inclusive wine brand that reflects community
The Black legacy in winepast, present, and future
The ups, downs, and lessons of entrepreneurship in wine

https://sipandsharewines.com

The Winemakers Playbook:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winemakers-playbook-harvesting-financial-business-strategies-tickets-1250300736159

Sponsor:

https://tornabenewine.com/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAt4C-BhBcEiwA8Kp0CcgLGwmwhbfxzus1T9C5ned5icyNPb8EVh1eFWQq0lcv4gl3XDR_ZRoC1XEQAvD_BwE

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From Brooklyn to South Africa with Winemaker Shadasia Tyler-Hasan

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 14:53:00 GMT

In this episode of the Swirl Suite, we sit down with the inspiring Shadasia Tyler-Hasan, a rising Black winemaker making waves in the industry. Sarita first met Shadasia in Burgundy, where she was working harvest, and now she has taken her winemaking journey to South Africa. We discuss her experiences, challenges, and triumphs as a Black woman in the wine industry, as well as her vision for the future of winemaking.

Episode Highlights:

How Shadasia got started in the wine industry
Her experience working harvest in Burgundy
What excites her most about South African wines
Her future projects and where to find her wines

https://www.instagram.com/dasiatylerlive/

The Swirl Suite Podcast

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Navigating Trademarks in the Wine World with Davon The Bubbleista

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 16:17:00 GMT

In this episode of the Swirl Suite podcast, we sit down with trademark attorney and wine enthusiast, Davon The Bubbleista, to discuss the ins and outs of protecting your brand in the wine industry. Whether you're a winery owner, wine influencer, or entrepreneur, Davons insights on trademarks, copyrights, and intellectual property are essential for anyone looking to safeguard their brand.

Get ready for a fascinating conversation about the importance of trademarks, common legal pitfalls to avoid, and how to build a strong brand that stands the test of time.

Join us for this invaluable episodeonly on Patreon! Become a patron today to access this video.

https://www.patreon.com/posts/navigating-in-122195290?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

Davon D. E. Hatchett is a multi-hyphenate wine professional creating multi-disciplined impact in the wine industry through her work as a lawyer, journalist, wine educator, and champagne-obsessed digital content creator.

As the Founding and Principal Attorney of Cultural Capital Law + Consulting, a holistic IP and brand development law firm & strategic consultancy focused on wine law, trademarks, business law, and tactical branding, Davon leverages her diverse legal skills and knowledge with the goal of helping build wildly successful wine brands and businesses, especially those that are BIPOC-owned.

As for her wordsmithing skills, shes a contributing writer for Sweet July magazine; her bylines have appeared in Full Pour magazine, Ebony, and Blavity; and she has been featured as a wine subject matter expert in both Wine Enthusiast and The Local Palate magazines.

Dubbed The Champagne Evangelist Davon also blogs and creates digital content under the moniker The Bubbleista (@thebubbleista/thebubbleista.com) and is currently pursuing her Master-level Champagne certification.

Ultimately, Davon strives to be a thought leader, innovator, and catalyst for equity and inclusion within the business and culture of wine.

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Celebrating Black History Month: Our Favorite Black Wine Producers

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 11:54:00 GMT

In this special Black History Month episode of The Swirl Suite Podcast, were raising a glass to some of our favorite Black wine producers who are making an impact in the industry!

From trailblazers with decades of experience to rising stars changing the game, these winemakers are crafting incredible wines while breaking barriers and inspiring future generations. Were sharing our go-to bottles, the stories behind these winemakers, and why supporting Black-owned wine businesses mattersnot just in February, but all year long!

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Raising a Glass: The Urban Grape’s 1st Anniversary with Jarrell The Wine Guy Jay

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 10:07:00 GMT

In this special live episode of The Swirl Suite Podcast, we celebrate the 1st anniversary of The Urban Grape with a night of wine, wisdom, and vibrant conversation! Recorded live at The Urban Grape, this episode features special guest Jarrell The Wine Guy Jay, a wine expert and advocate for inclusivity in the wine industry.

Join hosts of The Swirl Suite as they dive into the power of progressive wine retail, the importance of diversity in the wine space, and the art of selecting the perfect bottle. With laughter, expert insights, and an intimate crowd of wine lovers, this episode is a toast to community, education, and the future of wine culture.

https://www.instagram.com/thewineguyjay/

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Laurie Forster - The Wine Coach

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 18:40:00 GMT

Laurie Forster is one of Americas leading wine experts and author of the award-winning book The Sipping Point: A Crash Course in Wine. Laurie is a Certified Sommelier, National Speaker and TV personality who is not afraid to tell you her first wine came from a box. Her edgy approach to demystifying wine caught the eye of major networks and led her to guest appearances on The Dr Oz Show, FOX Morning News, Martha Stewart Living Today and ABC News at Noon.

https://thewinecoach.com/

Boxed Wine Competition

https://best-wine-in-box.com/fr/bienvenue/

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Quincy Goldsmith of Stem and Vine

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 12:28:00 GMT

Quincy Goldsmith is the owner of Stem & Vine, a distinctive plant shop, wine bar, and art space in Baltimore. His experiences living and working in Japan, Sweden, Mexico, China, Canada, and other parts of the world inspire the global perspective he brings to this dynamic space. With a background in engineering and a strong foundation in STEM, Quincy created Stem & Vine for those drawn to thoughtful conversations, creative expression, and cultural discovery. By weaving together plants, spirits, and art, he has built a space that sparks intellectual curiosity and fosters a sense of connection.

https://www.stemandvinebaltimore.com/

https://www.instagram.com/stemandvinebaltimore/#

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The Thanksgiving Episode

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 11:49:00 GMT

This Thanksgiving, all four hosts of #TheSwirlSuite are back together for a fun and festive episode! We're breaking down the dos and don'ts of Thanksgiving in Black households (you already know there are rules ) and sharing our favorite holiday traditions. Plus, Tanisha gives us the scoop on what Thanksgiving looks like in Pariswine, vibes, and all. Grab your glass and join the convo!

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Brittany Vincent

Sat, 23 Nov 2024 19:37:00 GMT

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Brittany Jinell Vincent

With 13 years in hospitality, Brittany began her career bartending, which sparked a passion for wine after working at a French restaurant in NYC. During COVID, she transitioned to a boutique wine shop specializing in minority-owned wines and spirits. There, she started hosting wine tastings, quickly becoming captivated by the world of wine. Throughout her career in hospitality, Brittany has also worked full-time in public health, balancing both fields with a passion for community engagement and education. She has since expanded her expertise as a special events consultant in DC, leading wine and spirit education classes. Brittany is in leadership within the DMV Hue Society and currently serves as Director of Program Development for The Veraison Project, an organization dedicated to promoting equity in the adult beverage industry.

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https://thewineconcierge.co/products/2023-kazaisu-rose-coteaux-varois-provence-france

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Kazaisu by Deborah Cox

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 19:06:00 GMT

Deborah Cox is an award-winning recording artist, Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductee, and international talent spanning music, Broadway, television, film, and fashion. Deborah is now excited to honor her connection with fans and friends alike with KAZAISU (Ka-Zy-Sue), Ros, and Blanc wines that she hopes will sit on tables at family gatherings, dinners with friends, reunions, and celebrations of everyday life.

Where to find Kazaisu:

he Swirl Suite Podcast

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Sarita @VineMeUp

https://thewineconcierge.co/products/kazausi-wine-tasting-with-deborah-cox

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Jennie Murphy of Oxlee Graham

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 18:15:00 GMT

After Graduating from UC Davis with a Chemistry degree in 2009, Jennie Murphy found herself in the wine industry by accident. She decided to take a harvest internship Korbel Champagne Cellars after her dreams of becoming a Forensic Scientist were quickly diminished due to a delicate economy. It was love at first sight, and after Korbel, she found an Enologist role at Paul Hobbs Wines. Here she would stay for the next twelve years, eventually growing in to the role of Director of Winemaking, and learning how to craft wines full of character and nuance.

Jennie is a firm believer that each wine should be unique and allowed to tell its own story. In 2022, she formed her own label called Oxlee Graham Wines, which is named for her two grandmothers. With her new label, Jennie hopes to continue to explore varietals and winemaking areas that exemplify that creative and individualistic spirit.

You can follow her on Instagram at @oxleegrahamwines or check out the wine collection at our website oxleegrahamwines.com.

Wine Tasting with Deborah Cox

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Steven Laine, Juniper's Blood

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 16:14:00 GMT

In his new novel Jupiters Blood, an American wine expert, Dante Lombardi, is struggling to come to terms with his best friends suicide. His world is further upended when his ex, Dr. Claire Durant, introduces him to a synthetic lab-made wine shes developed. Replivino can pass for the finest wines produced by the worlds best winemakers at a fraction of the cost. When Claire and her companys Vino Code disappear, however, Dante must put his feelings aside and rush to Europe to find her. But Dante isnt the only one looking for Claire as she pursues her own agenda to pop the cork on the traditional world of wine. So too is a ruthless wine counterfeiter. In a race across Europe, Dante must rely on his French and Italian wine industry connections, partner with new allies and old adversaries, and plumb the depths of his memory cellar to find Claire. Can he do so in time to save the global wine industry from ruin in the face of mass commoditization?

To learn more, visit https://www.bookpublicityservices.com/blog/wine-book-jupiters-blood

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Sarita @VineMeUp

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Katerina Axelsson, CEO and Founder of Tastry

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 18:49:00 GMT

Katerina Axelsson is the founder and CEO of Tastry, a sensory science company that is revolutionizing wine production and redefining the wine-buying journey by merging advanced AI, machine learning and chemistry with rich consumer data. Founded in 2016 to reimagine how winemakers and wine lovers experience the world of wine, Tastry has provided solutions for over 200 wineries, distributors and retailers across the United States, while giving consumers the ability to discover wines that match their unique palates. Katerina has been recognized as one of Forbes best names in the future of gastronomy in 2021, and featured in Pacific Coast Business Times 2020 40 under 40 series.

https://tastry.com/

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https://www.instagram.com/iola.wines

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Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Marilee Bramhall of Iola Wines

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 17:31:00 GMT

Marilee Bramhall is doing her part to change the wine world's status quo. Although up to 80% of wine purchases in the U.S. are made by women; only 15% of the winemakers worldwide are women. Her company, Iola Wines, champions women vigneronnes who are every bit as talented as their French and Italian brethren by sharing their wines through the Iola Wine Society Wine Clubs.

The idea of Iola Wines came to Marilee Bramhall after years of working in the Washington and California wine industry, studying and traveling the wine regions of Europe, and completing with Highest Honors certifications for French and Italian Wine Scholar and WSET L3 with Merit.

The brand is set apart by a sophisticated style of old-world wines from France and Italy, made with little to no intervention. Youll often find Marilee hosting wine tastings and educating attendees about the history and stories behind the wines.

https://www.iolawines.com/

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Vine and Voyage: Part 2

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 16:15:00 GMT

In this special episode of The Swirl Suite, Sarita and Tanisha share their exciting wine journeys across Europe. First, they recap their time immersed in Paris rich wine culture, from chic tastings to local vineyard visits. Then, Tanisha takes us on a vibrant tour of Sicily as she recaps her recent press trip, filled with bold flavors, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable wine experiences. Tune in for a double dose of travel stories, expert tips, and behind-the-scenes moments from two of Europes most beloved wine destinations!

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Vines & Voyage: Sipping Through France

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 14:35:00 GMT

The Swirl Suite is back! In this episode, we take you on a journey from Sarita's wine tour through France and Glynis' cruise from Italy to France. Leslie recaps her 2nd successful retreat.

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Dexter and Marilyn Meadows

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 12:31:00 GMT

Husband and wife owners Dexter and Marilyn Meadows were looking for a new adventure after retirement and Dexters love of the land led them to Umpqua Valley. From Southern California by way of Tuskegee, Alabama, the couple has been married for over 50 years (52 to be exact!) and through this new adventure with Meadows Estates Vineyard and Winery have been able to produce wines mostly known for their rich and earthy tastes such as a Syrah (which received 92 pts) & Pinot Noir, Grenache and Merlot.

Through planned events, workshops, a tasting room, onsite lodging, wedding venue, vineyard and grounds tours, Meadows Estates isnt just a place for wine, but also a community destination.

https://www.meadowsestatewinery.com/

https://www.instagram.com/meadowsestate_winery/

https://www.facebook.com/Meadowsestatevineyard

Dexter Meadows

Dexter holds a bachelors degree in architecture from Tuskegee University and a Masters degree in landscape architecture from the University of Michigan. He is a licensed contractor and landscape architecture in the state of California and enjoys wood working as a hobby.

Marilyn Echols Meadows

Scientist, School Teacher, Volunteer, Business Owner, Wife, Mother

A proud graduate of Tuskegee University with a bachelors degree in Biology and a minor in chemistry and mathematics.

www.swirlsuite.com

swirlsuite@gmail.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Terah Wine Co.

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 10:15:00 GMT

A native Californian, Terah refined her unique style and found her love of wine by way of food and from her travels across the globe. She started her professional career in the hospitality industry studying at the International Culinary Institute in California. She then spent time working in wine bars, a Michelin-starred restaurant, wine education, and consulting in the Bay Area.

https://www.terahwineco.com/

https://www.instagram.com/terahwinecompany/

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Hedon State

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 15:08:00 GMT

Founded in 2019, Hedon State Wine emerged as an innovative wine experience and education company. Michael and Levi set out to educate and empower the exploration of wine in fun and approachable ways through full sensory experiences. Their journey has been defined by our mission to educate the masses about wine, its cultural underpinnings, and create spaces for all to enjoy and engage.

https://www.instagram.com/hedonstate

https://www.hedonstate.com/

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Bridget Albert

Thu, 23 May 2024 16:37:00 GMT

Bridget is an advocate for upbeat education that makes an impact. She has designed beverage programs and produced trainings for top national Accounts that include the Disney, Delta Airlines, American Airlines and Crystal Cruise Line.

Bridget is the co-author of Market Fresh Mixology and Life, Love Happiness and Cocktails. She has been a contributor to 10 cocktail and beverage industry books written by various celebrated authors including Tony Abou-Ganim, Kim Haasarud, NY Times writer Robert Simonson and many more. Bridget has worked with top media talent including but limited to Oprah Winfrey, Guy Fieri and Kathy Lee Gifford. She has won numerous awards and honorable mentions for her work in the beverage world. This includes 1st place at the Tale of the Cocktail Bar Chef Competition, Chicago Tribune

Good Eats Award and the coveted No Kid Hungry s Share Our Strength Sustaining a Community award. She has repeatedly been nominated for the Tales of the Cocktail Spirit Awards top 10 beverage mentor in the world as recently as 2023. She has had the pleasure of hosting charity beverage events for a variety of companies, including the Bellagio, Locks of Love, Sky Blue, Cocktail for a Cure, Make a Wish Foundation, Hadassah, Taste of the Nation, Habitat for Humanity and New Leaders for New Schools. Bridget is the Founder of the National Charity Foundation of the United States Bartenders' Guild, the world's largest contributor to the cocktail culture. Currently she holds the position as SGWS Sr. Director, External Communications. Bridget is the Founder of the Academy of Spirits and Fine Service IL, KY & MN a program for

bartenders that covers the history of all spirits and pre-prohibition cocktails, and the Advanced Mixology Culinary Academy. She has been repeatably featured in the White House Historical Happy Hour series. She was the first featured female Mixologist on the Food Networks Iron Chef America Battle Mango. Bridget is the co-hostess on the celebrated Served Up the Podcast.

https://www.southernglazers.com/newsroom/served-up

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

SwirlSuite.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Liquid Intrusion Brewing Company

Fri, 17 May 2024 10:15:00 GMT

Andrew and Jasmine are co-owners and co-founders of Liquid Intrusion Brewing Company. We are a fast-growing Husband and Wife operation and Prince Georges Countys First Black-Owned Brewery. Craft beer ownership by African Americans only accounts for less than 1% across the country, only about 120 breweries. For other African Americans to understand what it means to be Black in craft beer, we must also take that time to educate and discuss its origins and to break the stigma of the negativity and poor quality of what is marketed towards us. Jasmine is also fortunate to be 1 of 12 African American women nationwide to own a brewery. We want to do our part in one of the most affluent and predominantly African American counties to help move the needle for a more diverse representation in the craft beer sector across the country and the world. With this mindset, no matter your background, MAY THE LIQUID ALWAYS PREVAIL!

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

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Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Mom Juice

Sun, 12 May 2024 16:51:00 GMT

Mom Juice Wines is a minority-women-owned wine brand that is revolutionizing the industry with its unique selection of premium wines catered to modern moms and beyond! Kristin and Macie's captivating journey from investing over $1 million in women-owned businesses to now betting on themselves is truly inspiring.

Mom Juice stands out with its clean and low-sugar blends, prioritizing transparent ingredient labels. Backed by Pharrell Williams' Black Ambition Founders, Mom Juice is more than just a wine brand it's a movement. The brand aims to transform wine culture by removing snobbery and stuffiness and building a community committed to empowering mothers and women.

https://momjuicewine.com/

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

SwirlSuite.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Live From Monticello Wine Week

Sat, 11 May 2024 09:37:00 GMT

The Swirl Suite recorded live from Monticello Wine Week at the Red Wine Showcase.

Thank you to our guests. Be sure to check out the Monticello Wine Trail.

https://monticellowinetrail.com/

The winery guests:

https://www.bbvwine.com/

https://hortonwine.com/

https://www.chestnutoakvineyard.com/

https://keswickvineyards.com/

https://www.hazy-mountain.com/

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

SwirlSuite.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Travel Talk

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 10:14:00 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, the hosts catch up and discuss upcoming travel plans. Glynis gives travel tips and tricks.

SwirlSuite@gmaiL.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Swirl Suite Live from Daze of Rosé

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 20:11:00 GMT

The Swirl Suite went live at the Daze of Ros fest this past Saturday. Glynis and Sarita interviewed winemakers, wine professionals, and attendees.

https://www.dazeofrose.com/

Guests:

Tracey Love https://www.blenheimvineyards.com/visit
Jodi Mills https://www.smvwines.com/
Karl Hambsch https://lovingcupwine.com/
Andre Marable https://www.thepacktravelclub.com/about-us
Monique Samuels https://milaeveessentials.com/

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Drinking Progressively with TJ & Hadley

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 15:25:00 GMT

TJ and Hadley Douglas are the Founders of the Progressive Wine Company and The Urban Grape, a full service beverage retail and e-commerce store, and gifting and events company based in Boston, MA. The Urban Grapes proprietary Progressive Scale, developed by TJ, has created a welcoming atmosphere for wine lovers to learn about and shop for wine in an accessible, customer-service focused environment. The Urban Grape was named the 2021 Small Business of the Year by the US Chamber of Commerce.

https://www.instagram.com/urbangrape/

https://progressivewineco.com/

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Winespeed with Karen MacNeil

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 14:17:00 GMT

Karen MacNeil is the only American to have won every major wine award given in the English Language. These include the prestigious James Beard award for Wine and Spirits Professional of the Year, the Louis Roederer award for Best Consumer Wine Writing, the International Wine and Spirits award as the Global Wine Communicator of the Year and the Wine Appreciation Guilds Wine Literary Award. In a full-page profile on her, TIME Magazine called Karen Americas Missionary of the Vine. Karen has been named one of the 100 Most Influential People in Wine in the United States. Karen is the author of the award-winning book, THE WINE BIBLE (now in its third edition), praised as a masterpiece of wine writing. THE WINE BIBLE has sold more than one million copies and was featured in the 2020 Netflix series Uncorked and the Starz series Sweet Bitter.

Karen is the creator of the digital platform WineSpeed.com and editor-in chief of the weekly digital newsletter WineSpeed. Her articles have been published in more than 50 newspapers and magazines including The New York Times, Town & Country, Food & Wine, and Worth.

https://www.karenmacneil.com/

https://winespeed.com/

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Lance & Lee

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 15:28:00 GMT

Known as an integral player in the establishment of natural wines in the country, Lee Campbell is an ardent supporter of sustainable vine-farming and traditional, low-intervention winemaking. Raised in the New Yorks Hudson Valley, they earned an undergraduate degree in American Government at the University of Virginia. However, she soon recognized that they were better off at the dining table than on Capitol Hill. Lees life-altering turning point came at the venerable Restaurant Nora in Washington DC, which opened their eyes to the ways in which food and its sourcing could beand must bepolitical.

After several years working in some of Washingtons and Manhattans top culinary and wine institutions, she moved to Brooklyn, where she became a norm-breaking wine director for the Tarlow Restaurant Group. Later, as co-creator of The Big Glou and co-organizer of the first Wild World Austin, Lee became a player in the establishment of Americas natural wine fair circuit.

Having become a certified sommelier many moons ago, as well as stacking up a gang of experience in nearly every aspect of the wine and hospitality fields, Lee continues to work for various clients as a wine consultant, including Early Mountain Vineyards in Madison, Virginia. Additionally, she is now part of the partnership team at Common Wealth Crush: a winery, custom crush facility, and incubator, located in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.

Lance, a Virginia native and a 2011 graduate of the University of Virginia, is an accomplished actor and a connoisseur of the grape. Double majoring in acting and studio art with a focus in cinematography, Lance brings a creative flair to the world of wine. Alongside his acting pursuits, he holds a WSET Level 2 Certification, underscoring his deep understanding of the nuances in the vast world of wine.

In 2020, Lance showcased his entrepreneurial spirit by opening RichWine RVA, an online local delivery service. His return to Richmond began a new chapter, where he immersed himself in the local wine scene. Lance further enriched his wine journey by opening Penny's Wine Shop in Jackson Ward, Richmond, Virginia, in February 2023.
Working alongside winemakers and brothers Ben Jordan and Tim Jordan at their family farm in Shenandoah, Lance honed his craft. Additionally, he served as a Cellar Assistant at Early Mountain Vineyards in Madison County.
https://www.instagram.com/bewitchinglee/
A true advocate for Virginia wine, Lance proudly holds a title of Virginia Wine Ambassador with The Virginia Wine Marketing office. Further demonstrating his commitment to the craft, Lance is making his first wine in collaboration with Reggie Leonard at Common Wealth Crush. They are the first to be part of this exciting inaugural incubator program. Their wine is titled The Parallax Project, which focuses on exploring the juxtaposition between the traditional Vitis Vinifera Grape and the new wave of grape growing in Virginia with Hybrids. Lance's journey in wine is about appreciation and active participation, making his mark on the industry from vine to bottle.

https://www.instagram.com/lancelemon/

Sarita

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Reggie & Tasha

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 14:50:00 GMT

"Reggie Leonard has made a notable entry into the industry, primarily through his co-founding of Oenoverse, a dynamic addition to the Virginia wine scene.

Affectionately dubbed as the "Virginia Wine Hype Man" by VinePair, Reggie's authentic approach and gregarious personality have earned him a well-deserved reputation. In his role as a Virginia wine ambassador, Reggie partners with the Virginia Wine Marketing Office, championing the state's diverse winemaking scene. Serving as a judge for regional and statewide wine competitions (Shenandoah Cup, Monticello Cup, and the current Virginia Governors Cup) have been formative recent experiences in his journey. His influence extends beyond Virginia, as he is an award recipient and alumni ambassador for Wine Unify, an organization dedicated to fostering inclusivity in the wine industry. Reggie's notable presence in esteemed publications like SommTV, VinePair, Punch, and the Boston Globe underscores his rising influence in the industry. Being named part of the '23 class of The VinePair 50 further solidifies his status as a rising star in the wine world. In addition to events throughout "the Oenoverse," you can catch Reggie at the 2024 Charleston Wine & Food festival, speaking on a panel, hosting a Virginia wine dinner, and pouring VA wines throughout the event."

https://www.instagram.com/thats.so.reg/

Tasha Durrett is a wine enthusiast and educator based in Virginia. Born and raised in Virginia wine country, she founded Black Women Who Wine in 2019. Black Women Who Wine is an organization focused on increasing the visibility and participation of Black women in the wine industry and agritourism throughout the state. It holds curated wine events centered on Black women. Tasha also offers private tastings and collaboration on events and wine tours. She is a WSET Level 1, studying for Level 2, and has a special interest in sparkling wine and grape growing in Southern climates. She writes for various publications, including Wine & Country Life.

https://www.instagram.com/blackwomenwhowine/

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Matt Harmon of Harmony Wine

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 14:13:00 GMT

After finding himself laid off due to COVID in early 2020, Matt Harmon decided to pursue his love for pairing his favorite wines with food and began his own wine company. After entering the industry and spending a lot of time at local wineries, he noticed that something was missing in the environment. People who looked like him. Matt has approached the industry with a fresh outlook in which he hopes to make the wine industry less intimidating and more inclusive to everyone. And from his dream, Harmony Wine was born. And so, however you drink, drink in Harmony.

https://atasteofharmony.com/

https://www.instagram.com/mharm_1/

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Black Wine w Marcia McColl

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 12:04:00 GMT

Marcia is a local wine and spirits consultant from Silver Spring, Maryland. Creator of Bubbles & Bourbon, a tasting soiree experience. Duly knowledgeable and passionate of wine and spirits in the WSET programme. Proud member of the women in bourbon association, DC Chapter and recent graduate in the Stave and Thief Society of certified bourbon stewards at Moonshine University.

https://www.instagram.com/bubbles_n_bourbon/

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

https://www.instagram.com/swirlsuite/

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

AI Wine Tasting w Pam Dillon

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 13:18:00 GMT

Pam Dillon is the co-founder and CEO of Preferabli, the leading B2B2C product discovery and recommendation software for the wine and spirits industry. Dillon has over 25 years of experience in the technology and consumer retail industries. A named inventor on 11 patents, Dillon was honored by Goldman Sachs as one of the 100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs and by VentureBeat as an AI Entrepreneur nominee.

https://preferabli.com/

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Chris Puppione

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 12:32:00 GMT

After a 15-year career in teaching and coaching, Chris Puppione transitioned to a life of wine in 2012, taking a position in hospitality with Robert Mondavi Winery. In the years since, he has diversified his experiences within the industry by way of education and working in the vineyard, cellar, visitors center, marketplace, and boardroom. He was honored to serve as Marketing Manager with world-renowned importer Martines Wines, sharing the stories of over 50+ brands from France, Italy, and Portugal, as well as a few domestic wineries. In recent years, Chris led the team at Passalacqua Winery in the Dry Creek Valley as Director of Sales, where his team distinguished itself as an industry leader in virtual experiences and high-touch hospitality programs.

Currently, Chris serves US wineries as the Account Manager for Coravin. He also writes for K&L Wine Merchants, teaches WSET courses at Napa Valley Wine Academy, and coaches for WISE Academy. He has been a featured speaker at wine industry events, such as the DTC Wine Symposium, Wine Business Monthlys Innovation + Quality, the Idaho Wine Commission's annual meeting, and License to Steal | National Wine Marketing Conference. In his "spare time," Chris and his wife Dolores own and operate Puppione Family Wines--a small winery brand they started to celebrate the birth of their family and honor their traditions.

Believing that every person is an experiment of one, Chris aspires to be a designer of moments who engages and transforms each guest, colleague and business partner.

Chris currently resides in the Russian River Valley with his wife and two young children.

https://puppionefamilywines.com/

https://www.instagram.com/puppionefamilywines

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

www.SwirlSuite.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Moderation

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 17:35:00 GMT

Get ready to buckle up, because this episode of the Swirl Suite is jam-packed with juicy topics, including the NFL playoffs, the infamous Kat Williams interview, and the wild world of "dry January" where folks seem to forget about the sweet nectar of wine.

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

www.SwirlSuite.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Wine Business with Rosalind Manoogian

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 13:32:00 GMT

Rosalind Manoogian has spent more than two decades nurturing Fog Crest Vineyard into the business it is today. As the President and Proprietor, Manoogian is deeply committed to the business she co-founded with her husband James.

The couple moved to the property in the mid 1990s, buying a sparse yet vast in size, aging orchard. What began as an effort to grow grapes to sell to other wineries eventually evolved into Fog Crest Vineyard, Sonomas only Black woman-owned vineyard. In addition to being a businesswoman, Manoogian studied economics at Stanford University. Initially when Fog Crest Vineyard opened for business, Rosalind took on the role of Vice President of Sales and Marketing. However, she quickly learned the wine business and added her business know-how as she moved to the top of the company.

https://www.instagram.com/fogcrestvineyard/

https://msha.ke/fogcrest

Email: SwirlSuite@gmail.com

https://www.swirlsuite.com/

Sarita

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Maryam Ahmed

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 14:20:00 GMT

Featured on the cover and named to the 2022 Wine Enthusiast Future 40 Tastemaker list of innovators who are changing the way we experience wine, Maryam Ahmed is a social impact entrepreneur, speaker, writer, and community builder who is making waves in the world of food and wine.

https://www.maryamandcompany.com/

https://www.instagram.com/maryamandcompany/

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Throwback - Erica Crawford

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 10:20:28 GMT

This Throwback Episode is with Erica Crawford in 2018. She had just released Loveblock wine. The recording took place at Rake's Progress at The Line Hotel.

Erica Crawford is co-founder of Crawford Wines and owner of organic wine producer, Loveblock Vintners. After serving a non-compete post their sale to Constellation Brands, she now focuses on organic farming and deep sustainability, producing wines under the Loveblock brand.

https://www.instagram.com/loveblockwine/

https://loveblockwine.com/us/

https://www.instagram.com/musicinthebottlepodcast/

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

Sarita @VineMeUp
Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass
Leslie @Vino301
Glynis @Vino_Noire

Leslie Dabney, The Vineyard Mom

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 15:10:44 GMT

Check out the Swirl Suite's Thanksgiving episode with Leslie Dabney, The Vineyard Mom.

Leslie Dabney, also known as The Vineyard Mom, is a successful television and live event host, blogger, and social media influencer.

She has hosted TV cooking segments on ABC affiliates, FOX affiliates, and many other stations.

Leslie has a popular published cookbook, Take Me To The Vineyard, where she shares her fresh ingredient recipes with suggested wine pairings.

https://www.instagram.com/thevineyardmomliving/

https://thevineyardmom.blogspot.com/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thevineyardmom

Service After Dark

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 13:23:00 GMT

Get to know the ladies of the Swirl Suite on this "after dark" episode full of wine and random questions.

Jermaine Stone - Street Somm

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 11:44:00 GMT

Tune In: Street Somm premieres on the Tastemade streaming channel on September 25th at 7:00pm, airing weekly through October 30th. The Tastemade streaming channel is available across all popular streaming platforms, including YouTube TV, Samsung TV Plus, Apple TV, DIRECTV, The Roku Channel, Comcast Xfinity X1, and more. Street Somm is also available on-demand in the Tastemade mobile and TV apps and ad-free with Tastemade+.

https://www.tastemade.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite: SwirlSuite@gmail.com @SwirlSuite www.swirlsuite.com Sarita @VineMeUp Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass Leslie @Vino301 Glynis @Vino_Noire

Wine Law w The Bubbleista

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 14:31:00 GMT

Davon D. E. Hatchett, a/k/a/ "The Bubbleista," is a brand strategist and trademarks, business, and wine law attorney turned champagne and sparkling wine educator; luxury wine, food, and travel freelance writer; digital creator; on-camera personality; and wine lifestyle entrepreneur. She's the creator and curator behind the lifestyle website and blog TheBubbleista.com, where she muses about wine, food and wine pairings, unique cocktails, travel, entertaining, and aspirational inspiration for living an effervescent lifestyle.

Davon has earned Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET) Level 2 certification, and is currently pursuing both her WSET Level III certification and Wine Scholars Guild Champagne Master-Level certification.

VinBohême

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 09:00:09 GMT

VinBohme (pronounced vin bo-HEM) is owned and operated by two Black women from Washington, DC and Philadelphia, PA. The concept of Vin represents our love of good wine and Bohme describes the easeful lifestyle that we all deserve. We offer select wines and items that make for a warm and inviting home. Our business is based in Washington, D.C.

Roberta (the interior designer of the owners) and Monique (the certified Sommelier) came up with this idea during the social distancing phase of the global pandemic. We spent a lot of time nesting and creating cozy spaces since we were spending much more time at home. We also invested in new wines and shared them with each other virtually to create a sense of connection. Once the world opened up, we enjoyed sharing these experiences in person and expanded the notion by hosting small dinners where wed exchange and enjoy wine. It gave us a satisfying sense of connectedness and gratitude. We decided from there that we wanted to help create this experience for others.

https://vinboheme.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite: SwirlSuite@gmail.com @SwirlSuite www.swirlsuite.com Sarita @VineMeUp Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass Leslie @Vino301 Glynis @Vino_Noire

Noël Burgess

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:50:00 GMT

Nol Burgess is an East Coaster living in Northern California wine country. His goal is to promote diversity and inclusion in wine, food, and travel with a focus on the places, the product, and most importantly, the people! Follow him on Instagram @mrnoelburgess and at noelburgess.com

Follow The Swirl Suite: SwirlSuite@gmail.com @SwirlSuite www.swirlsuite.com Sarita @VineMeUp Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass Leslie @Vino301 Glynis @Vino_Noire

Ghost Winemaker - Randy Meyer

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 11:46:00 GMT

Director of Winemaking & Operations BARRA of Mendocino/Girasole Vineyards and Redwood Valley Cellars

A graduate from UC Davis, Randy Meyer launched his winemaking and brewing career with the renowned F. Korbel & Brothers where he spent more than 20 years honing his still wine, champagne, and brew master skills on brands such as Korbel Champagne, Valley of The Moon, and Russian River Brewing. Following his time at Korbel, Randy served as Senior Winemaker for M. Draxton, Inc. as well as Geyser Peak Winery in Sonoma County. Randy joined the Barra family as Director of Winemaking and Operations in June 2019 and is responsible for overseeing all winemaking activities for both the CCOF-certified custom crush facility, Redwood Valley Cellars, as well as the organically farmed BARRA of Mendocino and Girasole Vineyards wines. When hes not making wine, Randy likes to spend time with his wife Marina and daughters Sara and Kristin. Randy also enjoys gardening, home improvement, golf, skiing and music. Current favorite bottles of wine: 2017 BARRA of Mendocino Zinfandel and 2019 Girasole Vineyards Pinot Blanc Favorite food: Anything Asian Favorite band: Rush Favorite saying/words of wisdom: Luck is when preparation meets opportunity.

http://www.redwoodvalleycellars.com/about-us.html

Follow The Swirl Suite: @SwirlSuite www.swirlsuite.com SwirlSuite@gmail.com Sarita @VineMeUp Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass Leslie @Vino301 Glynis @Vino_Noire

Michael Whaley of StillPoint Imports

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 14:59:00 GMT

Michael Whaley is the founder and owner of Still Point Imports, a boutique wine import company based in Memphis, TN focused on supporting producers in South Africa and France led by women and people of color. Michael began his career as an elementary school teacher and later founded and led his own school. With a background in educational equity work, launching an import business to help elevate underrepresented voices in wine was a natural fit. Since 2018, Michael has also served as an elected county commissioner in Shelby County, Tennessee.

https://www.stillpointimports.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite: SwirlSuite@gmail.com @SwirlSuite www.swirlsuite.com Sarita @VineMeUp Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass Leslie @Vino301 Glynis @Vino_Noire

Stuart Smith of Smith Madrone

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Brothers Stuart and Charles Smith are the vineyard managers and winemakers of Smith-Madrone Winery. Also in the family attic is the Fetherolf family, German farmers from the Palatinate region, who came to America on the Good Ship Thistle in 1730. The name for the winery came as a tribute to the Smith brothers who pursued their dream and to the Madrone trees which distinguish the property.

In May 1971, with a partnership of family and friends, Stuart Smith bought the 'terroir' which today is Smith-Madrone Vineyards & winery. He was 22 years old and had just received his B.A. in Economics from UC Berkeley and was taking classes towards his Master's in Viticulture at UC Davis. In trying to find land to plant vineyard in the Napa Valley, through a family friend he explored a forest on the remotest and highest part of Spring Mountain and discovered that the land had been a vineyard in the 1880s and in fact had been part of the wagon trail route between Napa and Santa Rosa. Today he is respected for his expertise and leadership as a mountain vineyardist.

Stuart was born and raised in Santa Monica. Every summer during college, from 1966 1970, he worked as a lifeguard on the beaches in Santa Monica. He started at Tower #1 just north of POP Pier, spent some time at the tower just south of the Santa Monica Pier (Muscle Beach) and later spent most of his lifeguarding time north of the Santa Monica Pier. One summer Stu worked on the rescue boat and became friendly with the boats operator, Lt. Tommy Zahn. Tommy was a legend in the surfing world and also famous for winning the Honolulu-Molokai paddle board race twice, first at age 20 and then again at age 40. Tommy was also famous as Marilyn Monroes true love. In 1971 the Santa Monica Lifeguards were folded into LA Countys lifeguard program.

While pursuing his master's at UC Davis, Stuart was the first teaching assistant for wine industry pioneers Maynard Amerine and Vernon Singleton in 1970-1971. He taught enology at Santa Rosa Junior College and Napa Valley College; he has chaired the 1986 and 2006 Napa Valley Wine Auctions. He is an active member of the G.O.N.A.D.S. (the Gastronomical Order for Nonsensical and Dissipatory Society), a group of Napa Valley vintners who started getting together for monthly lunches in the 1980s. He served on Napa County's Watershed Task Force for several years, appointed by the Board of Supervisors; in 2006 he was appointed again by the Board of Supervisors to sit on Napa County General Plan Steering Committee, responsible for updating Napa's General Plan, a three-year project. Stu has also served as auctioneer for an Omaha (NB) charity auction for many years.

Stuart served as Scout Master for St. Helena's (Boy Scout) Troop One for many years and continues as the Troop's Chair today. He is an avid canoeist, having canoed through the Quetico Wilderness in Canada many times and often canoes the Klamath and Trinity Rivers in California. He has five children and four grandchildren.

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Introducing When Magic Happens

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 14:09:00 GMT

Today, were sharing an episode of When Magic Happens, a new podcast from WBEZ Chicago, where intergenerational convos of love and laughter collide. In this episode were discussing ambition.

Weve all heard the tired saying be twice as good to get half. This week Cheryle, Jennifer and Taylor talk about weaponized ambition and finding motivation at different phases in life. Then, Cook County States Attorney Kim Foxx reflects on her political journey, the battles shes fought behind closed doors and the things that keep her rooted throughout the challenges of public-facing ambition.

Find When Magic Happens from WBEZ Chicago wherever you listen to podcasts.

Alice Achayo, The Wine Linguist

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Alice Achayo is the founder and owner of the Wine Linguist. A company focused on amplifying global cuisines in the wine industry, shifting the the language and culture of wine to increase accessibility to diverse wine drinkers, and raising awareness around the work of winemakers and vineyards stewards. Before starting the Wine Linguist, Alice worked as a sales consultant for a distributor, calling on both off and on-premise clients. Her passion and belief in food and wines ability to connect people from diverse background was the catalyst and is the driving force behind the companys mission. Wine is for everyone.
https://www.instagram.com/thewinelinguist/

Vote for Sarita:
https://favchef.com/2023/sarita-cheaves

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Novelist, Rebecca Rosenberg

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Rebecca is a champagne geek, lavender farmer and multi-award-winning author of five books. She fell in love with mthode champenoise in Sonoma, California, where she lives on a lavender farm with her family and founded the country's largest lavender company. (See Sonoma Lavender article in the New York Times.) Her book Lavender Fields of America was published in 2012 and a new edition in 2022.

Since then, she has pursued decades of delicious research about champagne in the wine caves and cellars of France and California. She is a champagne historian, tour guide and champagne cocktail creator for Breathless Wines. Rebecca is also a speaker for the National Women's History Alliance.

When Rebecca discovered the real-life widows who made champagne a world-wide phenomenon, she knew she'd dedicate years to telling the stories of these remarkable women, Veuve Clicquot, Madame Pommery and Lily Bollinger.
Her other gold medal award-winning novels include The Secret Life of Mrs. London and Gold Digger, the Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor.

https://favchef.com/2023/sarita-cheaves

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The Black Episode

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Sarita, Glynis and Leslie recap their Juneteenth weekends and discuss all things blackness.

https://favchef.com/2023/sarita-cheaves

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Darkskinned Rosé w Janelle

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Janelle Rucker, aka @Burgerandwines joins the Swirl Suite to discuss wine certifications. VinePair recently released an artlcle titled "Did I Waste My Time and Money on Wine Certifications?" by Sedale McCall. We dive into this article and give our candid opinions about wine certifications.

Follow Janelle
https://www.instagram.com/burgerandwines/

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Black in Paris

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Tanisha describes the services she provides for tourists visiting Paris and what her social life is like being a Black expat. I talk about being a wine tasting tutor for the first time and entering the My Favorite Chef competition.

https://favchef.com/2023/sarita-cheaves

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Music in the Bottle Podcast

Thu, 25 May 2023 13:36:56 GMT

Launched in 2020, Music in the Bottle Podcast is a weekly show revolving around wine, music, & current events. With a focus on making the wine industry more accessible & inclusive to individuals from underrepresented groups within the industry, Music in the Bottle has created a unique opportunity for all to feel welcomed within the wine industry. With over 4,500 total listeners & 16,000 total plays, Music in the Bottle continues to make strides in removing the barriers of entry to the wine industry. Music in the Bottle Podcast is headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

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1010 Wine Bar and Events

Thu, 18 May 2023 09:00:00 GMT

A typical night out for sisters Leslie and LeAnn Jones includes great wine, great food and great friends at some of their favorite restaurants in Los Angeles. Leslie, a luxury wedding planner, and LeAnn, an attorney, were tired of going outside of their neighborhood to enjoy delicious wine and food. With Leslies background in hospitality and LeAnns knowledge and love of wine, the sisters decided to open 1010 Wine and Events.
https://1010wineandevents.com/
https://www.instagram.com/1010wineandevents/

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Boyd Cru Wines

Thu, 11 May 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Boyd Cru wines is the first Black, family-owned wine brand in Maryland. They believe in making wines that are locally grown with sustainable practices in Maryland, with a niche focus on creativity and blends. The quality of our wine comes from bridging the traditional grape-to-bottle method using locally grown vinifera and hybrid grapes with the winemaking practice of blending varietals in a non-traditional way.

Jonll Boyd, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Jonll has started businesses with six-figure sales, running her own event planning business for the last 12 years. Her joy comes from creating experiences. She has always wanted to find a way to connect her passion for wine with a lifelong business. Her MBA in marketing also is a strength that will be valuable in connecting people with Boyd Cru Wines. She wants to build something incredible that serves women and creates a legacy for her family.
Matthew Boyd, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER
Matthews love for wine stems from his 12 years of pharmaceutical and chemistry knowledge. He loves that wine is both; parts chemistry and art when it comes to creating some of the best wines. His 15+ years of professional experience and his Executive MBA from Darden both will be valuable when running a wine company.

https://www.boydcruwines.com
https://www.instagram.com/boydcruwines/

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TV Talk w Sarita & Leslie

Thu, 04 May 2023 12:42:53 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, Sarita and Leslie give updates on current wine events and discuss DC being the home to the most wine drinkers in America. The second half of the episode, they discuss all things TV and the MET Gala looks.

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Grant Hemingway of Libby Wine

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 10:28:50 GMT

Grant Hemingway is a dynamic, passionate entrepreneur that has devoted his entire 16-year career to growing wine brands. Grant thrives on challenging the status quo and expressing his
creativity through innovative wine plays, be it process, packaging, or marketing. He is motivated by making wine more approachable and inclusive for the next generation of drinkers.
After graduating from UC Davis Viticulture + Enology, Grant managed Vineyard Operations and Development for the Far Niente Family. Building on this foundation, he moved over to Mason Cellars and eventually became General Manager/Winemaker where he grew the company for eventual acquisition by Trinchero Family Estates in 16. In his last start-up endeavor, he founded and ran EG Wine Co. as an early entrant into the canned wine category until summer of 20 when he accepted the position to run the Wine & Spirits division for MolsonCoors. Grant currently resides in Napa, CA with his wife and two children.

https://drinklibby.com/
https://www.instagram.com/drinklibby/

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Chef Renee Weaks of Kindle Cuisine

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Chef S. Renee Weaks is the Owner & Executive Chef of Kindle Cuisine, formerly Nee's Kitchen. From a young age, she had a passion for everything food. Her Southern roots nurtured the love of cooking, as well as her distinct preparation and colorful presentations. She was not the typical childhood picky eater, she loved to experience different foods. She believes food should be just that, AN EXPERIENCE! From exposure to new cultures and culinary creativity, to broadening and indulging all of your human senses.

https://www.kindlecuisine.com/
https://www.instagram.com/eatkindlecuisine/

A Maryland Wine Experience
https://marylandwine.com/
Event details:

Where: Graduate Annapolis
When: Three-part Event, Saturday, April 15, 11 am-7 pm | Wine Tours w/ Vino 301, Sunday, April 16, 11:15 am departure - includes stops at Great Frogs and The Vineyards at Dodon

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Nicholas Ducos of Mural City Cellars

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 09:00:00 GMT

After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, Nicholas discovered his love of wine working in some of the most notable wine regions in the world. After earning the title of Certified Sommelier through The Court of Masters, Nicholas decided to take the dive into winemaking in 2016 when he moved to Napa, California to participate in his first vintage. Wanting to gain more experience with white wines, he immediately went south to New Zealand to take another job opportunity. Later that year, he and Francesca moved to Philadelphia to be closer to family with the intention of opening Mural City Cellars.
muralcitycellars.com

A Maryland Wine Experience
https://marylandwine.com/
Event details:

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#JLohrWomen

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Raising a toast to celebrate the extraordinary achievements and contributions by women in the beverage alcohol industry is a year-round goal of J. Lohr, the premier, family-owned wine estate located on Californias Central Coast. And the newly launched 2023 #JLohrWomen Campaign is a first-of-its-kind effort aimed at doing just that - elevating the voices of women in the industry, creating new opportunities for professional entry into wine, and filling the alcohol beverage industrys gender gap in executive roles, vineyards, wineries and more.

Throughout a career spanning more than 25 years, Rhonda Motil has established herself as a highly respected and dynamic wine industry marketing executive. As vice president, marketing for J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Rhonda directs J. Lohrs globally admired in-house marketing program, while managing the winerys key communications, design and digital media partners. At the same time, leveraging her extensive background in the technology sector, Rhonda has played a pivotal role in establishing J. Lohr at the forefront of wine industry internet marketing and new media strategyhelping to create visionary programs that have earned J. Lohr accolades for its effective approach to consumer engagement.

At J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, acclaimed winemaker Kristen Barnhisel brings two decades of viticulture and winemaking experience spanning three continents to her role as winemaker for all white wines. Known for her gifted palate and technical skill, Kristen uses her expertise with a range of white wine varieties, styles, and winemaking methods to guide J. Lohrs white wine portfolio.

https://www.prweb.com/releases/j_lohr_vineyards_wines_launches_2023_jlohrwomen_campaign/prweb19131987.htm
https://www.instagram.com/jlohrwines/

Brunch Babes
https://thewineconcierge.co/products/brunch-babes-present-women-changing-todays-beverage-industry-landscape

The Wine Concierge Club
https://thewineconcierge.co/

VineMeUp Newsletter
https://www.vinemeupdc.com/newsletter

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Jummy Olabanji

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Jummy Olabanji co-anchors News4 Today, the #1 morning news in Washington, D.C.
A native of Fairfax County, Olabanji has spent most of her life in Virginia, graduating from Westfield High School in Chantilly and Virginia Tech. She earned a Master's degree in Communication and Leadership Studies from Gonzaga University.
Olabanji started her journalism career as an intern for NBC4. She has also worked for stations in Charlottesville, Norfolk, and New York City.
She has been honored for her work with two national Edward R. Murrow Awards for breaking news anchor coverage, two Virginia Associated Press Awards and eight EMMY Awards.
Olabanji is an advocate for organ donation and sits on the Board of Directors of the National Kidney Foundation. She is also a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, The Links, Incorporated, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

https://www.instagram.com/jummy_olabanji/

The Wine Concierge Club
https://thewineconcierge.co/

VineMeUp Newsletter
https://www.vinemeupdc.com/newsletter

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Black Food Series 3: Dr. Michelle Grant of Era Wine Bar

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Dr Michelle Grant is the founder and sommelier of Era Wine Bar. Prior to Era, Dr. Grant spent years as a subject matter expert and business development leader in both non-profit and private sector consulting firms. Her former life included many of the travels that were the inspiration for Era. Dr. Grant lives in Mount Rainier, MD with her husband Ka-ton, their two children, Leila and Lionel, and bulldog, Biko.
https://www.instagram.com/districthostess/
https://www.erawinebar.com/

The Wine Concierge Club
https://thewineconcierge.co/

VineMeUp Newsletter
https://www.vinemeupdc.com/newsletter

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Black Food Series 3: Chef Lisa Brooks

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 09:00:00 GMT

In 2010, I decided it was time to follow my dreams and turn my passion and purpose into a business. I left my corporate job, moved back home to Charlotte, N.C., and enrolled in a culinary arts program. From there, Heart and Soul Personal Chef Service was born.
https://cheflisabrooks.com/
https://www.instagram.com/cheflisabrooks/

The Wine Concierge Club
https://thewineconcierge.co/

VineMeUp Newsletter
https://www.vinemeupdc.com/newsletter

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Black Food Series 2: Chef Danielle Fiala

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 15:08:21 GMT

Danielle Fiala didnt always want to be a chef. But after completing her engineering degree in Philadelphia, she found herself missing the tastes of her native Jamaica and began seeking comfort in the kitchen. Thus began the journey that led her to culinary school in San Francisco and a new careerand lifeas a chef. In the twelve years since then, she has worked at numerous acclaimed restaurants in the Bay Area; there was even a stint as a butcher along the way. Her travels landed her in the Napa and Sonoma valleys, where her cooking career took a decidedly wine-centric turn.

She is currently freelancing as a private chef, with regular clients including The Napa Valley Reserve, Silver Oak Cellars, and Breathless Wines in Healdsburg. Growing up in a developing country, she was acutely attuned to the issue of food waste. So a commitment to sustainability is always at the forefront of her work.

Danielle currently serves as the San Francisco Chapter Secretary of Les Dames dEscoffier, a philanthropic organization of women leaders in the food, beverage, and hospitality industries.
https://www.instagram.com/dsfiala/

The Wine Concierge Club
https://thewineconcierge.co/

VineMeUp Newsletter
https://www.vinemeupdc.com/newsletter

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Black Food Series 1: Chef Mimi

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 09:00:00 GMT

A proud Oakland native, Aminah Chef Mimi Robinson-Briscoe is the founder of the Black Food & Wine Experience. She is passionate about bringing Black culture and food together for the most amazing culinary experiences. For more than a decade, she has focused on the often-overlooked intersection of food, social justice, and entertainment.

Through Chef Mimi LLC, Chef Mimi has brought to life three distinct brands: The Black Food & Wine Experience, an interactive annual event that bridges food, beverage, education, health, and Black culture, "Bringing It to The Table," the first culinary competition show highlighting the talent and passion of Black chefs, and Chef Mimi Catering, a boutique catering company that services Bay Area tech companies such as Facebook, Slack, Twilio and Lyft as well as non-profits and cultural events like the Coalition of Black Excellence and ESSENCE Festival.

A graduate of the California Culinary Arts Academy in San Francisco, Chef Mimi is an active board member of the Oakland African American Chamber of Commerce and Diablo Valley Colleges culinary and wine program. Most recently, she was recognized as 2022 Wine Enthusiast Top 40 tastemakers and the list of 2021 Forbes Next 1000, which highlights entrepreneurial heroes who are redefining what it means to build and run a business today.

https://www.thechefmimi.com/bfwe
https://www.instagram.com/iamchefmimi/

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Crete w Chrisa Giorgi

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Born and raised in Crete, Greece, and moved to the US to continue with her studies in Marketing. She holds a degree in Political Science and a Masters in Political Analysis from the University of Crete. She is a WSET Diploma Candidate, and a wine documentary filmmaker. Chrisa combines her experience as a journalist and a former Political Strategy Advisor to create her films. Her latest film, In the Wine Dark Sea, screened at festivals around the globe, won multiple awards and is now available to watch on Amazon Video. Chrisa is keen on exploring human relationships with our environment and uses filmmaking to share those stories. She is particularly interested in how filmmaking can be used as a creative medium to explore the extraordinary and complex world of wine, and how it can help people care and learn more about whats in their glass.

https://www.instagram.com/winecellarstories/
https://www.amazon.com/Wine-Dark-Sea-Joel-Dinolt/dp/B0B6PM15W7/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=in+the+wine+dark+sea&qid=1674222388&s=instant-video&sprefix=In+the+wine+%2Cinstant-video%2C80&sr=1-1

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Channing Frye of Chosen Family Wines

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Owner, Chosen Family Wines
NBA CHAMPION. HUSBAND. FATHER.
FOODIE. WINE CONNOISSEUR.
EVERYONES FAVORITE.
This is a passion project. I get excited talking about this every day. In my office at home, I have my championship ring, and then right next to it is my first Chardonnay and Pinot Noir bottles. The three things that for me, outside of my family, Im the most proud of.
https://www.chosenfamilywines.com/
https://www.instagram.com/channingfrye/

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Washington Wine Series 3: Sadie Drury and Marty Clubb

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Sadie Drury
Sadie Drury is a Walla Walla native who decided to combine her love for agriculture with her interest for wine by attending the Center for Enology and Viticulture at Walla Walla Community College and pursuing a career in viticulture. Sadie worked on Red Mountain for 5 years before joining the North Slope Management team in early 2013. She currently manages6vineyardsin the Walla Walla Valley AVA including the famed Seven Hills Vineyard. Sadie is passionate about sustainable agriculture and has worked closely with LIVE as a past Technical Chair and is now on the Governance Council for Sustainable WA. Sadie is the current Chair for the Washington State Wine Commission. She is the 2019Powers Sabbatical Recipient, the 2020 Washington Winegrowers Erick Hanson Memorial Grower of the Year, and a 2021 Wine Enthusiast 40 Under 40 Tastemaker.
https://www.instagram.com/vitnerd/?hl=en

Marty Clubb, LEcole N41
Marty Clubb is Managing Winemaker and co-owner with his wife Megan of LEcole N41.This third generation, family-owned winery is located in the old Frenchtown Schoolhouse depicted on their label. Founded in 1983, LEcole was the third winery in the Walla Walla Valley. LEcole has been named a Winery of the Year by Wine & Spirits Magazine sixteen times. LEcole is a partner in the highly acclaimed Seven Hills Vineyard as well as the nearby1,500 acre vineyard developmentSeVeinhome to LEcoles exclusive estate vineyard named Ferguson. The first vintage of wine from this vineyard, 2011 Estate Ferguson, was named best Bordeaux blend in the world over 15 at the prestigious Decanter World Wine Awards in London in 2014.The 2013Estate Ferguson was named Best New World Bordeaux Blend at Six Nations Wine Challenge in Australia in 2016.Martys ongoing dedication and commitment to the Washington State wine industry is evident in his many leadership roles. He has served more than thirty years on the Boards of various wine industry associations, including the Washington Wine Commission. He is currently a Director of the Washington Wine Institute and Wine America. Marty was instrumental in the founding of the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance, serving as its first President. Marty worked with other industry pioneers in the development of the Walla Walla Community College Center for Enology and Viticulture and continues to serve as an emeritus member of its wine advisory board.
https://www.lecole.com/our-story/family/

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Washington Wine Series 2: Dick Boushey and Mari Womack

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Mari Womack, Damsel Cellars
Mari Womack began her love affair with wine while working in Seattle restaurants. She caught the wine bug early when food and wine pairings captured her heart and her imagination. In 2010, she began working in nearby Woodinville tasting rooms, including Obelisco Estate and volunteering at Baer Winery during harvest. Becoming a part of the Woodinville wine community fostered her enthusiasm for winemaking and encouraged her to dream big.
Through these efforts, Mari was able to meet several winemakers in Woodinville and became the assistant winemaker at Darby Winery in 2011. Now working on vintage number six, her wines continue to impress and shes amassing a loyal following.
It is with pride and passion that Mari introduces her wines to you. The romance, ritual and history of wine continues to motivate and inspire her.
https://www.damselcellars.com/

Dick Boushey,
Dick Boushey, a cherry and apple grower first planted Boushey Vineyard with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in 1980three years before the Yakima Valley was recognized as an American Viticultural Area. Boushey Vineyard was located in a cooler region of the Yakima Valley and the grapes grown here soon earned distinction for the unique terroir they exhibit that was different from grapes grown in the warmer Red Mountain to the east and Wahluke Slope to the north. At the request of Rhone Ranger winemaker Doug McCrea of McCrea Cellars, Boushey began planting Rhone varietals and was one of the earliest Washington vineyards to grow Syrah.

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Washington Wine Series 1: JJ Williams and Shae Frichette

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 09:00:00 GMT

JJ Williams, Kiona Vineyards
JJ Williams is General Manager at Kiona Vineyards & Winery on Red Mountain. Williams is the third generation at Kiona, where his grandparents John and Ann Williams planted the first grapevines on the mountain in 1975. Williams grew up on Red Mountain and started working in the family business at age 14. He says he spent his childhood stacking and unstacking ladders, balancing shovels on my outstretched palm, and wondering why we couldnt have cable television like normal kids. Today Kiona is one of the largest growers on Red Mountain, farming more than 270 acres and working with 60 plus top Pacific Northwest wineries. https://kionawine.com/

Shae Frichette, Frichette Winery
Shae Frichette is Co-owner and Assistant Winemaker at FrichetteWinery, a limited production winery and tasting room in the Red Mountain AVA in Washington State, USA. Shae completed Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET) Level 2, and Introductory Course and Exam to Court of Master Sommeliers.Sheisthe2015ATHENA Young Professional Award recipient,2015 Entrepreneurial Award recipient, 2015 Young Professional Award recipient, Mid-Columbia Ag Hall of FameRising Star in ducted and graduate of Leadership Tri-Cities Class XX. Shae introduced Sashay Wines in 2017, a label for Frichette focusing on approachable red sand off dry ross. The Sashay wines included Ros of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Shae is currently Past Chair of the Board of the Tri-Cities Regional Chamber of Commerce and has served on the Board of Directors for the Red Mountain AVA Alliance,Visit Tri-Citiesand Advisory Board for UW Foster School of Business. She isa mentor with eMERGE, aSTEM based leadership program for girls. She is an active volunteer with the American Heart Association hosting an annual fundraising and awareness event and also founded the Benton City Giving Garden Project where more than a dozen wineries grow food and provide financial donations to the local food bank. As a community advocate, Shae volunteers by sharing wine and wine education forever a dozennon-profits in the Tri-Cities area each year. Prior to starting Frichette Winery, Shae lead the Organizational DevelopmentFunctionforStanley Black & Decker-HHI where she designed Leadership Development Programs for associates in four countries. Today, Shae is the head winemaker for Sashay and assistant winemaker for the Frichette Wines. Shes active in speaking at conferences and events on topics such as networking, providing stellar service and teambuilding. https://www.frichettewinery.com/

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Picayune w Claire Ducrocq Weinkauf

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 14:00:00 GMT

Claire Ducrocq Weinkauf, a French native grew up in Auvergne; the land of Volcanoes and fabulous cheeses. Inspired by the power of a Mouton Rothschild, she earned a wine degree in Chile and then embarked for France to work harvest in St Emilion and the Cte du Rhne. While working in South America, she met Paul Hobbs and got a job first at Via Cobos in Mendoza then in California. After numerous opportunities to taste amazing wines and meet wine industry leaders, Claire started a consulting company in 2010. Claire de Lune Consulting focuses on helping fantastic producers including Matthiasson Wines, Anomaly Vineyards, Morlet Family Estate, Cowhorn Winery and more to grow their businesses. Claire lives in Calistoga with husband Aron Weinkauf-Winemaker at Spottswoode Winery and their two children.

ABOUT PICAYUNE CELLARS & MERCANTILE

Made in the ngociant style by French Native Claire Weinkauf, each Picayune wine embraces the purity and intensity of California fruit, yet keeps its drinkability with balance and finesse on the palette.

Picayune (pronounced pee-ka-'yn) means a little bit in regional French. Our tasting room and mercantile store is located in downtown Calistoga, and welcomes wine lovers seven days a week to enjoy one of our fantastic wines. Picayune also serves as a curated shopping experience with an eclectic selection of amazing artisans including French Master Knife makers, Native American ledger artists, a local silk scarf maker and more. As Napa Valleys most enchanting winery, tasting room and mercantile store, you can expect to unlock treasures and create memories when you choose Picayune.

https://picayunecellars.com/
https://www.instagram.com/picayunecellars/

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Evolving Palates

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 14:00:00 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, we talk about the evolution of our wine and food palates.

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Nadine Elizabeth Brown, At Your Service

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Born and raised in Jamaica and Puerto Rico, Nadine is a twenty year veteran of the Washington Area restaurant industry. She spent over 14 years at Charlie Palmer Steak as their Wine Director and Sommelier. Nadine holds certifications from both the Court of Master Sommelier, WSET, is a wine judge and writer. Her company At Your Service, offers a range of services from wine events, cellar management and wine promotions. Nadine is a mentor to many young professionals in the business where she strives to encourage more women to join and stay in the industry. She hopes to educate operators of the benefits of having more women on their team and how to be creative about work life balance for moms and dads.https://www.instagram.com/nadinewinebrown/?hl=en

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Maryland Wine w Kevin Atticks

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Kevin Atticks has been Maryland Wineries Associations executive director since 2003. Kevin began writing press articles for the wine industry, but soon grew the organization with new events, promotional programs, government affairs initiatives and more. He founded Grow & Fortify in 2015 to support all Maryland value-added agricultural businesses, including distilleries, breweries, hemp growers, agritourism and more. He serves on the University of Maryland College of Agriculture's Global Leadership Council and on the board of Future Harvest, is past chair of the Maryland Tourism Coalition, past president of the Maryland Agricultural Resource Council, and past chair of the WineAmerica State & Regional Associations Advisory Council. Kevin holds a masters in environmental journalism from CU-Boulder, a doctorate in communications design from University of Baltimore, and a bachelors in journalism and music composition from Loyola University, where he teaches book publishing.

https://growandfortify.com/
https://marylandwine.com/

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Wine Talk w Chrishon Lampley

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 13:00:00 GMT

It was Christmas morning when Chrishon got the call. A freak flood in the building of Chrishons thriving Chicago art and wine bar that she had co-founded several years prior had destroyed everything. When an insurance loophole didnt cover the damages, Chrishon was forced to shutter the business. Finding herself back at ground zero, Chrishons instinct to pick herself up and figure out what was next kicked into high gear. She had been running a lifestyle blog and radio show for fun called, Love Cork Screw, where she frequently shared advice and tips on wine, entertaining, and relationships. In the aftermath of the flood, it dawned on Chrishon that Love Cork Screw was more than just a blog, it was a brand; her brand.

Love Cork Screw encompassed all the things that Chrishon was passionate about bringing together and sharing with others. And just like that, Chrishons mission to reinvent how we think about and experience wine was set in motion.

Full Interview on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/6nqfP_EQrOg
https://www.instagram.com/lovecorkscrew/
https://www.lovecorkscrew.com/

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Global Wine Tourism w Tabnisha

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 13:00:00 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, Tanisha recaps the Global Wine Conference in Alba, Italy. We discuss the differences in wine tourism in Europe vs the US and the changes she made to her tours post pandemic.

Watch Tanisha's Panel
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZgzXRP_x3M Oysters and Wine in Cancale
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRmj9Kky/

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What kind of wine tourist are you?

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 13:00:00 GMT

The Swirl Suite cast catches up on wine events, travels and discuss wine tourism during the pandemic decline. Glynis gushes over her first wine club shipment from Leslie. Sarita recaps her trip to LA and all of the black businesses she visits. Lastly, wine tour season is among us. They all describe what type of wine tourist they are.

The Wine Concierge Wine Club
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NV Quinta do Ferro Bruto Tinto Red Sparkling
https://thewineconcierge.co/products/copy-of-2013-quinta-do-ferro-bruto-tinto-red-sparkling

1010 Wine Bar & Events
https://1010wineandevents.com/

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Dana Spaulding of Wander + Ivy

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

In April 2017, Dana Spaulding, certified level II sommelier, founded Wander + Ivy. Prior to creating W+I, Dana spent 7 years with J.P. Morgans Private Bank, managing assets for ultra-high net worth families. Most recently, Dana was a Vice President in the J.P. Morgan Rockies Market, covering the food and beverage industries, among others.
Dana studied Economics and Business Administration at Fordham University in New York City and graduated Summa Cum Laude. While at Fordham, Dana also danced with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Dana currently lives in the Denver Highlands with her husband, Gus, children, Maelyn and JB, and boxer, Tedy. She is on the ACE Scholarships Associate Board and in her spare time enjoys yoga, running, skiing, cooking and traveling with her family.

https://www.instagram.com/wanderandivy/
https://wanderandivy.com/collections/all-wines

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Allison Slute of Cab Franc Chronicles

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Allison Slute's love of wine and food blossomed after an immersive 3-month trip to France at the age of 15, which inevitably convinced her to pursue a career in wine. Her career in wine spans 15 years in both Canada and the US in a variety of roles in sales and marketing, including export sales, public relations, social media marketing, and sales distribution and management. Her love of a single grape inspired her project Cab Franc Chronicles, where she explores and analyzes the terroirs and expressions of Cabernet Franc from all over the world. Allison completed her WSET Diploma in May 2022, and she holds her Certified Sommelier accreditation through the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers.

https://www.instagram.com/cabfrancchronicles/

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Erica Davis of The Sip

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Erica Davis, Co-Founder and CEO of The Sip
As an Oakland native, Erica made it her mission through The Sip to give back to the city that gave her so much. When she founded The Sip, she also created the Take a Sip, Give a Sip give-back initiative. Every purchase from The Sip funds access to clean water for women and children in need through the East Oakland Community Project (EOCP), a multi-service, multi-facility organization providing emergency and transitional housing in Alameda County. The Sip has provided more than 5,500 gallons of water - and counting! Erica is passionate about changing the way alcohol is marketed to women, and advancing visibility and opportunity for Black founders in the wine industry (where less than 1% of winemakers and owners are Black). She puts this passion to practice with The Sip, which allows women to explore their palate in a judgment free zone without breaking the bank. Prior to founding The Sip, Erica served as the Director of Content and Director of Merchandising at Darby Smart, up until the brands acquisition. She also completed Gap Inc.s intensive cross divisional Retail Management Program, equipping her with the deep knowledge of brand management, consumer insights, product development, supply chain management, revenue/cost forecasting, trend analysis, commodities negotiation, quality control - skills she put to valuable use when founding The Sip. Erica is a graduate of the University of San Francisco and alum of Alpha Kappa Alpha, the first intercollegiate historically African American sorority. She is passionate about entrepreneurship, product development and her family, and enjoys a great glass of Laurent Perrier while watching the Real Housewives of Potomac (guilty, but not so guilty pleasure).

https://thesip.com/pages/choose-membership
https://www.instagram.com/theofficialsipsociety/

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Isis Daniel, The Millennial Somm

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Isis Daniel, known as The Millennial Somm (TMS), is a certified Level 3 w/ Merit Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) wine consultant and wine content creator from Washington, DC. While dedicating 5 years to the Hospitality Industry, she fell in love with wine and decided to refocus her career. During her vino journey, she recognized the lack of accessibility and intimidation due to exclusivity. As a fellow millennial, she knew it was time to make the inaccessible, accessible and the exclusive, personal. Thus, she created The Millennial Somm '' with the mission to cultivate the next generation of wine lovers via social media, personal interaction and education.

Every Thursday, Daniel hosts her Instagram Live show, #TastingThursday. She has become the face of #winetok with her educational wine content and hilarious TikTok alter ego Mrs Suzanne Thee Wine Snob. Daniel's dedication to creating inclusive and educational wine content has lead her to her most recent success, being featured in Wine Enthusiasts 40 Under 40 Tastemakers.

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Mike Fayad and Yoav Gilat

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Mike was born in Washington, D.C. At an early age he developed a deep passion for restaurants, which he pursued as a career starting in New York City. While working in Spanish restaurants, he became captivated by that countrys food, wine and culture. He moved to Utah in 2015 for a change in pace and lifestyle (sound familiar?!). Prior to joining Hearth and Hill in 2021, Mikes Beehive State restaurant experience included the Grand America Hotel, Current Fish & Oyster, Under Current, Bambara and Silver Star Cafe.
https://hearth-hill.com/

Yoav is CEO and founder of SHARE A SPLASH wine co Originally founded as Cannonball Wine Company in 2006, his founding vision was to create the best sub $20 California Cabernet on the market. Born and raised in Tel Aviv, he founded the company when he left a promising career as a lawyer to follow his passion for food and wine. With an innovative business model where he didnt need a brick & mortar facility and a huge upfront investment, he was able to quickly go to market. Today, the company headquartered in Healdsburg, California produces and manages a portfolio of wines that echo a simple belief: that wine, like life, is best enjoyed when shared. The portfolio is built around brands that serve up incredibly high quality wine for the price point and include: Cannonball, Angels & Cowboys, High Dive Napa Valley and imports including New Zealands Astrolabe Wines and Jos Maria da Fonsecas Twin Vines Vinho Verde.
https://www.shareasplash.com/

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Fermented Grapes w Kilolo Strobert

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 16:00:00 GMT

A lifelong New Yorker, Kilolo has spent more than fifteen years in roles at award-winning wine shop Le Ds Wines, the infamous hotel Le Parker Meridien (now Thompson Central Park New York), Zagat, high-end wine shop Morrell & Company, and Fresh Direct Wine & Spirits. Currently, she is the communications coordinator for the Wine on Wheels, and manages wine programming at StarChefs International Chefs Congress. A personal journey for Kilolo, Fermented Grapes was part of the Prospect Heights community for more than twenty years, and its where she had her first job in the wine industry. Now, Kilolo returns to her roots on Vanderbilt to re-launch Fermented with partner longtime friend and colleague Max Katzenberg, an entrepreneur and hospitality consultant that previously worked at acclaimed restaurants like Olmsted, Maison Yaki and Blue Hill at Stone Barns.

Fermented offers natural, organic and biodynamic wines, with highlighted sections specifically from female, Black and Indigenous winemakers. There is also a diverse selection of spirits from New York distillers. Her engaging personality and philosophy to engage with wine drinkers at every level is illustrated throughout the space with pops of saturated, funky colors on the walls, expressive illustrations lining the wooden shelving units, and easy to understand wine categorization. Kilolo's approach to wine is unique....she takes the time to connect with all her customers to truly simplify the wine buying experience and make it fun & approachable for all.
https://www.instagram.com/kilolostrobert/
https://fermentedbk.com/

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Burlesque & Bubbles: Cabaret Noir

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 15:00:00 GMT

St. Helenas historic Cameo Cinema is beginning a series of performing arts fundraising events staged outside the theaters home on Main Street. The Cameo is expanding the entertainment options for the Napa Valley by bringing unique live experiences to the community, announces Cathy Buck, founder and proprietor. Our first, Cabaret Noir, is a celebration of burlesque, an entertainment art form that is a fun mix of fantasy, old-school glamour and humor, Buck adds.

Cabaret Noir will be a magical night featuring dancing, hors doeuvres, a dessert bar, still and sparkling wines, a Naughty and Nice Auction and live performances by the internationally acclaimed burlesque star Frankie Fictitious. The festivities begin at 7:30 pm on August 19 at The Culinary Institute of Americas Barrel Room in St. Helena. Tickets are limited and are $250/person and must be purchased in advance. Cocktail attire is recommended. The evening will benefit The Cameo Cinema Foundation.

Frankie Fictitious is a well-known burlesque performer based in San Francisco. She has been named Miss Exotic World 2019 (Burlesque Hall of Fame), #1 Burlesque Artist 2020 (Risky Spotlight Magazine), Miss Viva Las Vegas 2017 and has been voted one of the top 50 burlesque industry figures worldwide. Her show-stopping act encompasses her artistic imagination, elegant and innovative dancing, impeccable musicality and dazzling, extravagant costumes.

Between Frankies performances, Napa-based DJ Rotten Robbie will keep the beat going on the dance floor. He has spun with musicians including The Bangles, Sister Sledge, Modern English, RuPaul, Martha Wash, Thelma Houston and Wynonna. He can be found making music in the VIP and Platinum lounges at Bottle Rock each year.

Bubbles and wine sponsors include JCB, Chateau Montelena and Spring Mountain Vineyard. Other sponsors include The Napa Valley Film Festival and Culinary Institute of America/Greystone.
https://cameocinema.com/cabaret-noir-burlesque
https://www.frankiefictitious.com/

Burlesque Playlist
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6dIQK1lWWBcI9j7WSvw3Ip?si=0a1fec2dc77b47fcFollow The Swirl Suite:
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Diana Brier of Valley Cheese & Wine

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Though a Texas native, Diana Brier is no stranger to living and working all over the country. Through her education and incredible work experiences, Brier has become a well-respected cheese professional and one of only 45 people in the U.S. to hold a Certified Cheese Sensory Evaluator certificate from the American Cheese Society(ACS).Prior to working in the cheese industry, Brier found herself constantly questioning what type of career to pursue. She chose an eclectic education, studying everything from Musical Theater to Business Management, yet nothing ever felt quite right.Post-college, Brier worked as a Financial Analyst in Salt Lake City, Utah when she flatlined after open heart surgery. The health scare gave her a new perspective on life, andfrom that moment on, she was only going to do what fueled her soul. On a missionto figure out what exactly that was, she applied for a job with Whole Foods, where the opportunity to work in cheese was presented. She accepted the position in May 2014, becoming Whole Foods Perishable Buyer and Cheesemonger. Without a background or education in cheese, Whole Foods put Brier in a Cheese 101 course, and it was there that she discovered that cheese made her more than just happy. Cheese had found her it was the perfect balance of right-brain creativity and left-brain methodology that Diana had been searching for her whole adult life. After leaving Whole Foods in August of 2015, Brier worked with Harmons in Draper, Utah as their Lead Cheesemonger, working with over 150 cheeses. She moved on to Park City, Utah in November of 2015 as the Assistant Cheesemaker with Deer Valley Resort for two ski seasons and specialized in making soft-ripened cheeses. In May of 2017, Brier became the Production Supervisor for Rogue Creamery in Central Point, Oregon, one of the most well-respected creameries in the U.S. There, she supervised and coached a team of more than a dozen cheesemakers as they crafted and aged the beautiful cheeses for which Rogue Creamery is famous. In March of 2019, Brier decided that she wanted to call Las Vegas her forever home and joined MGP Food as a Cheese Consultant and Educator, leading multiple programs and consulting with chefs all over The Valley.In Julyof 2020, Brier became the Owner and Director of Cheese ofValley Cheese & Wine, Las Vegas longest running cheese and wine store. As Director, Brier works to elevate each customers experience through her expertise and introduce new and unique programs that allow people to taste and learn about cheeses from around the world in a fun, approachable way.While navigating taking over the shop amid a pandemic, Brier also earned her ACS Certified Cheese Professional title, making her knowledge and palate even rarer. She is also on a journey to becoming wine certified, having just completed the WSET Level 1. Brier loves her adopted home of Las Vegas. When she is not working, she enjoys working out, exploring the outdoors, lounging by the pool, and spending time with her amazing group of friends. She shares her homeand lifewithher partner,twin Lynx Point Siamese cats, Nuage and Lange -named after triple creme bries-and dog Koa.
https://www.valleycheeseandwine.com/

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Auction Lot 288 w Nadine Nettmann

Sun, 31 Jul 2022 12:00:00 GMT

Nadine Nettmann is the Director of Creative Development at SOMM TV, a certified sommelier, and author of the award-nominated Sommelier Mystery Series. When shes not producing films including Auction Lot 288 and the upcoming film The Judgment of Paris, shes exploring new podcasts, researching history, and seeing how far she can pop Nadine Nettmann is the Director of Creative Development at SOMM TV, a certified sommelier, and author of the award-nominated Sommelier Mystery Series. When shes not producing films including Auction Lot 288 and the upcoming film The Judgment of Paris, shes exploring new podcasts, researching history, and seeing how far she can pop Champagne corks.

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Auction Lot 288 w Jason Wise

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Jason Wise is the director of the SOMM film series, The Delicacy, and the Hollywood film: Wait for Your Laugh. With the success of the SOMM Series, Wise launched SOMM TV, a streaming service dedicated to wine, food, and travel. Named one of the 40 Most Influential people in the world of beverages by Wine Enthusiast, Wise also created and directed the James Beard nominated SOMM TV original series Sparklers, the first wine and cooking competition show. You can hear Jason weekly as the host of the SOMM TV Podcast.
https://www.sommtv.com/

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Wine 101 w Keith Beavers

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 17:00:00 GMT

Former owner of a wine bar and restaurant in New York City, Keith Beavers is self-taught in wine through over two decades of experience in the wine industry. Keith is an esteemed Wine Educator and the Tastings Director at VinePair, the largest drinks publication in the U.S. Keith is the producer and host of VinePairs popular "Wine 101" podcast. He is also the producer of VinePairs "Cocktail College" and "Going Out with Jake Cornell" podcasts.
https://www.instagram.com/vinepairkeith/

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Shoe Crazy Wine

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Gwen Hurt is the founder of Shoe Crazy Wine. Prior to launching Shoe Crazy Wine, Gwen was an executive for a Fortune 300 Tech Company based in Asia. In 2013 hardship struck. Gwen was downsized by the company in which she had spent 15 plus years and two days later was in a car accident. During physical therapy and rehabilitation, Gwen made the decision to not succumb to her circumstances. It was then, with her daughter Brittny she made the decision to go into the wine business. When a name was needed for her wines, Brittny had the idea to name it something Gwen loved which was shoes. And in 2014, her two passions melded to become The Shoe Crazy Wine Company.

And when Gwen was unable to get a distributor for her wines, she made Shoe Crazy a wine distribution company. She used her sales and marketing skills to build relationships with retailers. For every no, she was determined to get a yes eventually. All her work and dedication have led to Shoe Crazy Wine now being available in VA, NC, PA, MD, SC, FL, GA, TN, AL, and MS with more states to come. She has built relationships with several retailers including Sams Club, Food Lion, Target, Kroger, Total Wine & More, Walmart, Army Exchange, The Coast Guard, Navy Exchanges, and many wine shops, liquor stores, and restaurants in the Southeast.

In 2021, after surviving the COVID-19 pandemic shut down, Gwen realized that she could continue to grow her company by pivoting to spirits. She added six spirits: whiskey, vodka, and moonshine in 2022, officially changing the name to Shoe Crazy Wine and Spirits.

And she has even taken Shoe Crazy to the next level by partnering with NASCAR/ARCA to have Shoe Crazys name and logo added to a race car, making them one of very few Black-owned wine and spirits companies in the NASCAR/ARCA world.

Perseverance, tenacity, faith, and family are paramount. Gwen believes in these core values.
https://www.shoecrazywine.com/

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The Wine Pair Podcast

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 13:00:00 GMT

The Wine Pair Podcast is a weekly podcast co-hosted by husband and wife team Joe and Carmela Mele. Our goal is to help the everyday wine drinker discover wines that are worth their time and money, so each week, we taste and review three reasonably priced and easy to find wines. Our reviews are honest, easy to understand, and usually pretty funny. Along the way we also interview folks in the wine industry, talk about wine etiquette and advice, give pointers on wine pairings, and tease Joe about, well, lots of stuff.Joe and Carmela leverage their backgrounds - both as teachers, Joe as a former professional musician, and Carmela as a professional baker - along with their lifelong love of food and wine in each episode. Both Joe and Carmela have Masters in Teaching and taught high school and elementary school respectively for several years in the Seattle area. Joe was also a singer in the a capella group The Coats, and Carmela runs and owns her own bakery in Seattle called BabyCakes. Their passions, along with podcasting, are their three children and their extended Italian American families.

You can find Joe and Carmela at website https://www.thewinepairpodcast.com/, on instagram @thewinepairpodcast, and you can listen to us on your favorite podcast service.

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Travel Tips w Joni Rials

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 13:00:00 GMT

A super wine enthusiast, a curious world traveler as well as an ICU RN, Joni Rials founded Seek and Sip Travel with the belief that wine shouldnt be intimidating and travel should be accessible to everyone. After experiencing the connection between wine culture and travel, she began traveling and studying different regions and global destinations known for excellence in wine and spirits production. She slowly built Seek and Sip Travel.
Ms. Rials holds a WSET Level II Wine Certification. She also earned the Comit Interprofessionnel Du Vin de Champagne Certification: An organization representing and regulating the business of Champagne in France. She also hold various certifications through global tourism boards, has contributed to various media outlets and hosts a weekly streaming wine travel show The Perfect Sip exploring the intersection between wine/spirits, culture and travel.
https://www.seekandsip.com/
https://www.instagram.com/seekandsiptravel/

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The Wine Shutter Chelsea Erica Smith

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Chelsea grew up in a small town outside of Portland, Oregon, then ventured to Nashville, Tennessee to pursue life, liberty, and old school country music. She finds purpose in growing and establishing meaningful communities, educating and speaking on freelancing & entrepreneurship, as well as writing- both with her keyboard and with her guitar.
Chelsea believes in the power of stoicism and maintaining a mentality that daily challenges happen for you; to shape you and mold you into a better, brighter person. Shes devoted to helping educate others on how to build, grow, and maintain their solo business. Shes a storyteller, a studier of art & culture, and a lover of all things travel. In 2021, she reviewed and partnered with 50+ luxury hotels and restaurants in over 14 states with The Wine Shutter. Shell be hosting the first large industry-exclusive event ELEVATE, in Nashville August, 26th-28th, 2022.

This solo-preneur got her start with photography at age 7, taking photos of friends on the playground at recess. She then learned the dark room at age 12, while attending the Vancouver School for the Arts & Academics. Chelsea started charging for taking high school portraits at age 16 and got the business license for Urban Bay that same year. Chelsea has shot over 200 weddings worldwide, her favorite destination being Monterosso, Italy in Cinque Terre.

When Chelsea moved to Nashville in April of 2022, she started a booming photoshoot networking event & community for up-and-coming musicians that saw over $60k profit its first year. In the first six months, Nash Bash Collective has now gained over 100 established members.

Chelseas biggest passion is writing. Her book, Calling Cold, has been a passion project that has been years in the making and is set to release Summer of 2023. The work-book is packed with action-oriented advice, raw stories of sales & pitching, as well as ideas on how to live a purpose driven life as an entrepreneur.

https://www.elevategala.com/
Discount Code: Swirl Suite

Guacamolita:
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2022/06/could-avocado-be-the-new-summer-cocktail-flavour/

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Check out other ALIVE Podcast Network shows at: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com

Summer Spritzers w/Jordan Salcito

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 16:00:00 GMT

Jordan Salcito has been curious about wine since learning her grandfather made it in his basement and fell head over heels for it since her first harvest in Burgundy in 2006. She began her career in New York as hostess at wd~50 before becoming a prep cook at DANIEL, sommelier and manager at Eleven Madison Park, then eventually Wine & Beverage Director for David Chang's Momofuku restaurants. After investing over a decade working her way through several facets of the wine and restaurant industries, Jordan founded RAMONA, an organic Italian wine spritz. She continues to work harvests each year at world-renowned wineries across the globe, from Burgundy and Tuscany to Patagonia and California.

Jordan has received widespread recognition for both her wine programs and entrepreneurial pursuits. Her wine program at Momofuku has been named a James Beard Foundation semifinalist multiple times and in 2017, was awarded Most Original Wine List in the World from World Of Fine Wine. Jordan passed her Master Sommelier Blind Tasting exam on her first try, was named a Wine Enthusiast 40 Under 40 Tastemaker, and was recognized as a 2018 and 2019 James Beard Foundation semi-finalist for "Outstanding Wine, Spirits or Beer Professional," tied to her brand RAMONA. RAMONA received four Double Gold Medals and one Gold Medal in the world-renowned San Francisco International Wine Competition. Salcito has appeared everywhere from the TODAY show to WSJ and has also been featured in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Goop, The Cut, Coveteur and Into the Gloss, among others.In Fall 2020, Salcito debuted a new podcast series, Opening Up with Jordan Salcito. She lives in New York with her husband and two sons.
https://www.instagram.com/drinkramona/
https://www.drinkramona.com/pages/find-us

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Meet The Swirl Suite

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 15:00:00 GMT

The Swirl Suite cast is re-introduced to new listeners. Listen to our feature from Snippets of The Wine Pair Podcast and a vintage epiode with guest Reggie Soloman. - The full Wine Pair Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4fBxfssRXhW2byrGFnJEu2?si=59c2ebf4fe114f36.

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Ken of Unwine101

Thu, 12 May 2022 16:42:13 GMT

I'm Ken Pettus. I reside & work in New York City as a consultant for the biggest wine portfolio in the world. I'm aWSET certified wine & spirits educator and enthusiast. I've been in the wine & spirits industry for over a decadenow. I'm a product of my Jamaican+ Black American parents. My experiences as a Black man in the wineindustry has its share of stories. My journey in wine started living in Europe, being exposed and captivated by wine culture. After moving back to NY, I began building my foundation of knowledge in one of the biggest wine stores in Queens, NY, tastingevery red, white & rose wine on a daily basis to develop my palate as much as possible. I managed a multimillion dollar internet wine selling e-commerce business growing from shipping just 5 cases the first week to 100 cases a day in just 2 years.

During Covid, I was fortunate to partner with a few wine enthusiasts and professionals and hosted Sunday Wine Club on Clubhouse. It became the biggest wine and spirits room on Clubhouse, where enthusiasts, wine makers, or just the curious customers could all interact. Whether it was wine knowledge or people who wanted to learn more about the industry & and hear about experiences, Every Sunday you never knew who would pop in. Rob Mondavi, Donae Burston, and other winemakers and professionals would give access into their business, their backgrounds and their insight into the future of wine.

https://www.instagram.com/kenplush/?hl=en

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Chiaretto w Tanisha

Thu, 05 May 2022 12:34:19 GMT

We are back with a new episode! Tanisha gives an informative recap of her press trip to Chiaretto. Chiarettos area is in the province of Verona, Romeo and Juliets town, halfway between Milan and Venice, in Northern Italy. "Chiaretto is a truly Italian ros wine".

Chiaretto di Bardolino

The Italian Dry Ros

www.chiaretto.pink

#discoverchiaretto

#chiarettopink

IG:@chiaretto_di_bardolino

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Flackback w Black Bean Soup w Rae Mathis

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 14:57:29 GMT

On this flashback episode with Rae Mathis, we go after dark. It's an entertaining episode, full of random questions.

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Flashback to Drew Baker

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 10:18:42 GMT

At the age of 22, Drew planted the first 7,600 grape vines on his family's farm. His dream was to grow great American wines in Maryland. Today he pours his energy and passion into forging a new image for Maryland wine.Each year he travels the world studying his craft and honing his skills. Drew believes the rolling hills of Maryland offer just the right mix of elevation, sun, breeze, and rocky soils to grow grapes fit for remarkable wines.

https://www.instagram.com/drewhbaker/

https://www.oldwestminster.com/

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Jennifer Croll

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 13:35:06 GMT

Jennifer Croll is the author of six books on fashion, culture, and cocktails: Dressed to Swill (2022), Art Boozel (2021), Free the Tipple (2018), Bad Girls of Fashion (2016), Bad Boys of Fashion (2019), and Fashion That Changed the World (2014).

During the daytime,shes the editorial director at nonfiction publisher Greystone Books.

You can follow her on Twitter @jencroll.

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https://www.instagram.com/rootsfund/

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IKIMI DUBOSE-WOODSON

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 11:46:48 GMT

Find what you love and let it kill you. is the famous quote wrapped around a global knife tattooed on Ikimis back.

Destined to be a lawyer to help her Brooklyn community, Ikimi ended up in Culinary school by accident. Securing her first job at the World Trade Center Marriott as a silver polisher, was a humbling and knowledgeable experience. Ikimi attended Johnson & Wales University, and after graduation utilized her time traveling the world studying culture through food. Upon her return to the states, she was the youngest & first woman to complete the Marriott & Ritz Carlton management training program. Her career led her to lead culinary and management teams at sports organizations, restaurant groups, and prestigious educational institutions. After leading the culinary team on Capitol Hill, through the largest sustainable food initiative, Ikimi rediscovered her passion to mentor the next generation. In August 2017, in conjunction with Lifeworks Restaurant Group she designed, and opened LEO MKT, a food hall in Washington, DC, focusing on cuisines around the world.

Ikimi co-founded The Roots Fund, a nonprofit dedicated to creating inclusive opportunities for communities of color throughout the wine industry in 2020 alongside Carlton McCoy and Tahiirah Habibi. She runs the organization as Executive Director and has overseen the 100+ scholarships they have awarded and the massive fundraising effort.

Known for her ability to create managers, lead large teams, encourage growth of women, and minorities in the business, she hasnt stopped yet. Chef, restaurateur, writer, nonprofit executive, and inspiration. When there is no room for me at the table, I usually stand on the table.

https://www.therootsfund.org/

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Ames Morison of Medlock Ames

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 15:38:39 GMT

Ames Morison is the founding partner of Medlock Ames Winery. A Virginia native, Ames graduated from Tulane University in New Orleans with a degree in Ancient History before working as a teacher in New York. He spent three years in the Peace Corps in Guatemala which solidified his desire to be a vocal supporter of organic farming, where he applies diversified agricultural practices to create a balanced and sustainable environment in the vineyards.

Light-touch techniques are also healthier options for the vineyard crew that Ames oversees. Ames planted most of the 50-acre vineyard site as well as

supervised the winery's construction that was completed in time for the 2003 vintage. To prepare to grow grapes and make wines from Bell Mountain, Ames worked in enological and production capacities at several Napa and Sonoma wineries as well as studied viticulture and enology at the University of California at Davis. Having over 20 years of experience of growing grapes at Bell Mountain, Ames looks to the future and the next 20 years of what wines will grow best there.

In 2021 and after 19 years as Winemaker, Ames Morison shifted his focus to Medlock Ames' strategic sustainability goals and being an outspoken educator to mitigate climate change. With the preservation of the land and respect for the environment at the heart of Medlock Ames values, Ames focuses on implementing the winerys five-year plan to set a new standard of environmental sustainability through regenerative organic farming, water

conservation, fire prevention, community development, and eliminating greenhouse gas emissions.

When Ames is not walking the vineyard, he can be found spending time outdoors with his son, Ulysses.

https://www.medlockames.com/

https://www.instagram.com/medlockames/

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Mailynh Phan of RD Winery

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 12:10:52 GMT

Mailynh(pronounced my-LIN)Phanis the CEO of RD Winery, which takes a more inclusive approach to the Napa Valley wine experience. The winery is the first Vietnamese-owned winery in Napa and was founded with a vision to solely export wine to Vietnam. But in 2020,Mailynhled RD Winerys entry into the U.S. market and opened the Vietnamese-inspired tasting room in the summer of 2020. As an outlier in the industry,Mailynhenvisioned a place where anyone curious about Napa wine would feel welcome to experience it and be able to afford it. She leads RD Winery through a community-focused approach, to offer experiences and events where people can delight in a refreshingly different wine country experience.

Mailynhhas an MBA from UC Berkeleys Haas School of Business and a degree in psychology from Vassar College.

https://rdwinery.com/

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Jennifer of JC Select

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 12:07:40 GMT

JC Select Wines

Curated Wine Selections, Events & Concierge Services for the Modern Wine Enthusiast.

"Once a Civil Engineer, Jennifer "stumbled" into the wine industry during her move from Canada to California.She started out on the broker/distributor side of the business over 10 years ago, co-founded a brokerage, always passionate about the lesser-known, fantastic wineries & their stories.In 2019, she launched her passion project Great Pour Decisions, a lifestyle and wine accessories brand, all while working towards creating her ultimate dream business. Jenn successfully launched that dream and founded JC Select Wines to bring her favourite wines directly into the hands of those in search of the great gems out there. "

"JC Select Wines allows me to elevate my client's experience with wine by both sharing a wine's story and then providing direct access to the wines that I'm passionate about.

"Like wanting to live better lives and eat better food, we also want to drink better wines. Wines made by people whose heart and soul are inside every bottle. I care about every bottle that I open and about every winery that my choice supports. JC Select Wines exists because I'm not alone in caring about the wines I support."

https://www.jcselectwines.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jcselectwines/

https://www.cava.wine/en/origin-cava/labelling/

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Eric Depradine of Zydeco Meadery

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 20:53:36 GMT

Eric Depradine is from Boston, Massachusetts.He is a 2006 and 2008 graduate of UL-Lafayette in history and chemistry.He's worked for various municipal governments in Louisiana and Missouri regulating federal and local wastewater laws.He is also a 2021 graduate of Highland Community College's enology certificate program.Finally, he is proud the owner of Zydeco Meadery, one of four minority-owned alcohol manufacturers in Kansas.

https://www.zydecomeadery.net/

https://www.vesta-usa.org/

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Po'ing Up w Lizz & Iman

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 13:38:04 GMT

Lizz Rene (she/her) is a Black woman entrepreneur, innovator, and disruptor. The daughter of immigrants, Lizz is a proud first-generation college graduate and proud Black alumna of the University of Georgia. She has dedicated her work full-time to dismantling oppressive systems and amplifying Black stories. With retail partnerships with Busboys & Poets (DMV), Nubian Hueman (DC & Baltimore) and Happy Cork (Brooklyn, NY), Lizz presents PO UP! Card Game an unapologetic drinking game that translates college experiences through nostalgia. Lizz has grown PO UP! Card Games social media presence by garnering more than 3 million views on TikTok alone. She is a founding member of The Gathering Spot (DC) and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Coupon codeSWIRLSUITEfor 15% off our cards:https://poupcards.com/discount/SWIRLSUITE

Iman @imansakeena is a Wine Content Creator and former graduate from Kendall College Culinary Art school level one sommelier program, WSET 2 and currently a WSET 3 student at the American Wine School in Chicago, IL.She also is the founder of @blackvinesmatter where she highlights people of African descent in the wine industry.She is on a mission to add flavor to the wine industry and to shake up the norm!

https://www.instagram.com/imansakeena/

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Ray Sholes of The Royal Vines

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 19:09:40 GMT

Ray Sholes is a Certified Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers. He has a discerning

palate and is a passionate wine lover. He is known not only for his incredible tasting abilities and

vast knowledge but also for his friendly, relaxed and professional approach to wine education.

Growing up in Compton, California Ray admits, I come from a world where an education in

fine wines, sake, craft brews, and spirits did not exist. His fascination for wine took off after

graduation from Johnson & Wales University where he earned his Bachelor of Food Service

Management. His thirst for wine has taken him across the globe to vineyards where he learned

and improved his skills beyond textbooks. Ray is a beverage judge, speaker, and educator. He

has spent over 15 years in the restaurant and hospitality industry where he has wine list creation,

cocktail and spirit program development, dynamic staff training and restaurant management

under his belt. When he isnt hosting tasting events, he works as the Sommelier for Michaels

Genuine Food & Drink in the Design District, of Miami. Ray Sholes is also the Founder and

Content Creator for The Black-Owned Wine Review series on YouTube producing content

that promotes, amplifies, and perpetuates Black-Owned wine brands!

Follow Ray:

https://www.instagram.com/theroyalvines/

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Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Black Winestory Month

https://www.wine-grape-growing.com/wine_grape_growing/about_this_title/glossary/wine_grape_growing_a.htm

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Brenae Royal

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 12:53:53 GMT

A former 4-H kid, Royal oversees 575 acres, of which about 250 are planted to prime Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel grapes at the iconicMonte Rosso Vineyard. She studied crops and horticulture science at Cal State Chico and then worked as an intern atGallo, where she was promoted to vineyard manager in 2015. Home to some of the oldest-producing grapevines in California, Monte Rosso has an almost mythical reputation among winemakers who love its brilliant acidity and distinct notes of spice. Royal patrols it all with her black Labrador, Violet Mae, and is an active advocate for improving involvement and advancement of Black people in agriculture and winemaking.

https://www.instagram.com/_cabrenae/

Wine Growing Glossary:

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Black Winestory Month

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Terrence and Brandon of Michael Lavelle

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 21:21:35 GMT

With a decade of building intrapreneurship teams at Fortune 500 companies such as IBM and LinkedIn, Terrence is an analytical strategist with a focus on emerging trends and culture. Terrence oversees the execution of current and future visions of Michael Lavelle as he traverses between

worlds of strategy, creative and operations to execute each objective at the highest standard. Born and raised in Chicago, Terrence holds a BA in Economics from Howard University in Washington, DC. Passionately curious for connecting the dots, shifting culture is what led him into the spirits/wine business. Hes currently enrolled at Napa Valley Wine Academy for Sommelier certification.

With a firm understanding that ideas are only as good as their execution, Brandon brings his knowledge of operational systems to ensure Michael Lavelle is logistically sound. Over the past decade, Brandon has achieved operational excellence for the nation's leading brands, including Grubhub, Toast, and the Washington Nationals. Born and raised in Chicago, Brandon holds a BS in Leisure Studies from Howard University in

Washington, DC and is currently enrolled at Napa Valley Wine Academy for Sommelier certification. Through his entrepreneurial experience in the DC hospitality scene it became clear that spirits are pivotal in building relationships and connecting communities.

Follow Micahel Lavelle:

https://www.instagram.com/sipmichaellavelle/

https://sipmichaellavelle.com/

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Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

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Glynis @Vino_Noire

Black Winestory Month

https://watch.sommtv.com/sparklers

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Sparklers of SOMM TV

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 11:23:42 GMT

SOMM TV brings together five of the top wine connoisseurs, along with other culinary professionals, in SPARKLERS, a high-stakes, high-pressure competition show based on cooking and pairing great sparkling wine from around the world. The 13-episode food & wine competition show premiered Tuesday, November 23rd and continues until a champion is crowned on Tuesday, February 8th.

SPARKLERS features a diverse cast of food and wine professionals who are changing the culinary world. While the show has guest judges, the main challenges are decided by the five contestants themselves, pitting friends against each other as they make tough decisions to create one of the most unique food shows youve ever seen and the first ever cooking and wine pairing competition show.

The shows talented cast of food and wine professionals include Maryam Ahmed, hospitality entrepreneur at Maryam & Company in Napa, Claire Coppi, Wine Director at Sushi Note restaurant in Los Angeles, Matthew Kaner, renown sommelier and restaurateur in Los Angeles, George Walker III, National Brand Ambassador/Winery Operations at Wade Cellars in Napa, and Meghan Zobeck, Winemaker at Burgess Cellars in Napa.

Watch this episode live on our YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5DWXGYADJg

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Sarita @VineMeUp

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Leslie @Vino301

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Black Winestory Month

https://www.instagram.com/nova_cadamatre_mw/

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Nova Cadamatre MW

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 15:31:42 GMT

A winemaker with a wide and diverse background, Cadamatre started in wine on the East Coast as a

winemaking apprentice with Stargazers Vineyard in 2003. After graduating from Cornell University in 2006

with a Bachelors in Viticulture, Nova moved to California. During her time in California, she worked with

fruit from all over the state eventually settling in Napa and focusing on Bordeaux and Burgundian varieties

from some of the top vineyards in the area including To Kalon, Vine Hill Ranch, MacDonald, Detert, and

Hyde Vineyard. In 2015, she started her brand Trestle Thirty One in the Finger Lakes of NY. In 2020 added

Snowshell Vineyards for Naked Wines and in 2022 will be launching Fiadh Ruadh, a 100% Cabernet

Sauvignon from Stags Leap AVA in Napa. She currently goes back and forth between Napa and the Finger

Lakes to manage both her CA projects and her projects in NY.

In 2017, Nova was the first female winemaker in the US to achieve the title of Master of Wine. She has been

named to Wine Enthusiasts Top 40 under 40 list and has numerous 90+ scoring wines to her credit from

both coasts.

Follow Nova:

https://www.instagram.com/trestle_31/

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https://www.instagram.com/burgerandwines/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Black Winestory Month

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Alicia Ortiz

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Growing up on the Space Coast of Florida, Alicia Ortiz began her career at Kennedy Space Center as a Public Affairs intern and quickly developed her skillset in brand strategy, media relations, and social responsibility.

Ultimately taking her first full-time job out of college with MORI Associates, another NASA contractor based in Maryland, she connected with Blake Hershey in 2019, who told her about his idea for Sippd. Resonating with Sippds mission to create a more inclusive wine experience for younger, less-experienced wine drinkers while using the platform to support social causes in a digital format - she knew she had to be a part of the project.

Today, Alicia is the Head of Marketing at Sippd - the personal wine recommender and online marketplace that combines artificial intelligence and wine to help consumers find and order wines that match their unique taste profile.

Follow Alicia and Sippd:

https://www.instagram.com/aliciasips/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/drinksippd/?hl=en

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Sarita @VineMeUp

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Leslie @Vino301

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Alex Jankowski

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 12:19:04 GMT

AlexJankowskihas been the Marketing Manager for Wagner Vineyards, located in New York's Finger Lakes wine region, since December 2019 and also serves as the Marketing Chair for the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. Prior to this, he was an editor and journalist for publications in Massachusetts, California, Alaska, Connecticut, and New Jersey. He is a native of Buffalo, NY, and glad to be back closer to home, telling the stories of the hard work and ingenuityneeded to craft world-class wines in upstate New York. He recently was awarded the 2021 Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance Outstanding Customer Service Award for these efforts.

Follow Alex and Wagner:

https://www.instagram.com/alexjankflx/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/wagnervineyards/?hl=en

?Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/galenglenwine/?hl=en

Sarita @VineMeUp

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Sarah C Rhodes-Troxell of Galen Glen

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 11:55:44 GMT

Interested in science from youth with a natural proclivity for mixing unusual concoctions (like perfumed toothpaste), Sarah eventually received a degree in Chemistry. Her professional career was focused on pharmaceutical packaging components for injectable drugs. But it was trips to Germany, and wine from Hawaii via husband Galens best friend, that collided to inspire Sarah and Galen to leave corporate jobs and acquire the Troxell family double century farm. Sarahs winemaking mentor, serendipitously also from Germany, Volker Schneider, helped her refine the winerys style while strengthening her wine chemistry repertoire. Sarah and Volker collaborated onAcidity Management in Must and Wine: the first exhaustive treatment of the subject in print and the definitive guide to arguably the most delicate operation in the development of a fine wine.

NY wine critic Lenn Thompson recently described Sarah: If she were making wine on the West Coast (or even in a place like New York or Virginia) youd know her name. But, because she and Galen are 90 miles north of Philadelphia in rural Andreas, PA, she flies very much under the radar for all but the most intrepid regional wine geeks. Galen Glen is twenty-seven years young and Sarah is proud to be entrusted each harvest with translating the story of the growing season and land into wine. When not farming wine, Sarah enjoys drinking wine of course, cooking with Galen as head chef and Sarah as his sous-chef, and encouraging their three grown children to pursue their aspirations.

https://www.galenglen.com/index.html

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Jermaine Stone

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 13:15:55 GMT

Bronx native, Jermaine Stone, spent his life entrenched in Hip Hop but found an interest in fine wine while packing boxes in the shipping department for Zachys Wine Auction. He later grew to create their global logistics presence while honing his skills as an auctioneer. In 2013 he became one of the founding Directors and Auctioneers for the auction department of LA retail giant Wallys. Throughout his 17-year career, Jermaine has worked with various clients across all facets of the wine industry, developing his skills in business operations, marketing, brand partnerships, and content creation. Today Jermaine is head of Cru Luv Selections; A New York based creative agency dedicated to blending his knowledge of wine and hip hop culture.

Follow Jermaine:

https://www.instagram.com/realwolfofwine/?hl=en

https://wineandhiphop.com/

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Sarita @VineMeUp

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After Dark 2021 w Rae

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 13:15:04 GMT

We close out 2021 with one of our favs. Rae Mathis.

The topics range from holiday gifts to red flags. The entire episode is live on our YouTube Channel.

Here are a few of the black businesses we mention:

https://www.instagram.com/mrs_tastebudz/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/blkandbold/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/zeninajar/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/sdesirebrand/?hl=en

Follow Rae:

https://www.instagram.com/vermillionpearl/?hl=en

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Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Mixology & Murder w Kierra Sondereker

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 20:08:28 GMT

IntroducingMixology and Murder: Cocktails Inspired by Infamous Serial Killers, Cold Cases, Cults, and Other Disturbing True Crime StoriesbyKierraSondereker a new full-color book that adds a twist of true crime to 60 classic cocktails. Accompanied by tales of serial killers, cold cases, cults, and more, youll find page-after-page of alarmingly appealing drink recipes.

https://www.amazon.com/Mixology-Murder-Cocktails-Inspired-Disturbing-ebook/dp/B08VJLH81Y

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Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

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Donae Burston

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:19:37 GMT

Donae Burston is a luxury wine & spirits leader with over 15 years of industry experience.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Donae achieved a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Mathematics from

Clark Atlanta University in 1998. He concurrently completed a second degree in Industrial Engineering from

Georgia Tech before he began his career in the information technology sector, initially consulting on Healthcare

Systems. In 2003, Donae entered the alcohol industry, working on the promotional side of several iconic brands

in the U.S, before joining the luxury group LVMH. During his 10+ years with the company, he worked across

brands such as Dom Perignon, Veuve Clicquot, Ruinart, Moet & Chandon, Belvedere Vodka, and Hennessy

Cognac. While with LVMH, in 2011, Donae created the first-ever luxury champagne bar in a sports arena at

American Airlines Arena during the Miami Heat's championship run. In 2016, Donae became the Regional

Director of the Southeast U.S, Caribbean, and Latin America regions of Armand de Brignac Champagne. He was

responsible for the brand's commercial and marketing goals in each territory.

Throughout his career, Donae found that, in general, the wine industry was not embracing the multicultural

consumer. He wanted to create a quality product inspired by his zest for life and travel that homed in on catering

to the margin that had been overlooked, particularly when it came to ros. With a commitment to creating an

authentic and exceptional St. Tropez ros, in the summer of 2019, La Fte du Ros - a brand that speaks to all

demographics - was born. The name "La Fte" translates to "the ros party," one that everyone is invited.

Since its debut, the company has donated a portion of the proceeds from every bottle sold programs such as All

Abroad that send underserved & underrepresented youth on unique travel experiences. In June 2020, Burston

announced the $2 of from every bottle sold via its website through August 2020 would be donated to

organizations that fight every day for racial justice and create opportunities for people of color in the wine &

spirits industry. A total of $25,000 was raised and donated to The Roots Fund and other foundations.

Donae splits his time between Miami and Atlanta, where he lives with his fiance and their 3-year-old son, Noah.

Follow Donae:

https://www.instagram.com/thurstonburstoniii/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/lafeterose/?hl=en

https://shop.lafeterose.com/collections/all

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Sarita @VineMeUp

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Leslie @Vino301

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Alexandra Schrecengost of Culture With Us

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 01:27:40 GMT

CEO of curated virtual events company VirtualWithUs&CultureWithUs,withmore than 15+ years of experience in wine, spirits and luxury hospitality communications.Alexandra is the Founder of Virtual With Us, curated virtual experiences and Culture With Us, the missing link between hybrid, remote and in-person employees with offerings for unique corporate gifting and bespoke hybrid experiences for corporations.

A WSET level 3 certified wine professional and longtimefinewine and spiritscommunicationsspecialist,Alexlaunched Virtual With Us when she saw her husband and his colleagues' need for nurturing and building professional relationships.VirtualWithUsis the only virtual events business that's focused on high quality interactive experiences and ultimately relationship building in the workplace--for socialization and interactionwithcolleagues, so no one feels like they are in a silo.

Giving voice to diversity and inclusion are at the center of Culture With Us, especially in thedigital medium which will be the backbone for vibrant workplaceculturesand inclusion in the future--whether it be hybrid virtual onboarding first day meet & greets, office tours, retreats/off-sites and corporate gifting.

Alexandra is currently studying for the WSET Diploma, and holds a Masters of Public and Organizational Relations from Montclair State University. She serves on the beverage committee for The James Beard Foundation on and on the board of Self Help Africa.Alexlives in New Jerseywithher husband and their identical twin boys.

Follow Alex and Culture with Us:

https://www.instagram.com/alexschrec/?hl=en

https://culturewithus.com/

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Arden & Margaux of Argaux

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 10:30:14 GMT

Arden Montgomery and Margaux Reaume are the founders of Argaux, the all-women operated and owned online wine shop and educational platform. Argaux brings a modern, accessible approach to shopping for and learning about wines through experience-based kits and sommelier-guided tastings for everyone from beginners to more experienced wine connoisseurs.Arden and Margaux received their Level I and II certifications and launched Argaux in 2015. With a team of all-female, Certified and Advanced, Level III sommeliers and French Wine Scholars (through the Court of Master Sommeliers and The Wine + Spirits Education Trust), Argaux curates an ever-rotating selection of small production, family-owned, and responsibly farmed wines from around the world.

https://argaux.com/

https://www.instagram.com/_argaux_/

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Sarita @VineMeUp

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Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Amanda of Shitty Wine Memes

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 11:32:40 GMT

Shitty Wine Memes is aFlorida-based brandthat brightens the day of an audience connected to wine. From those just starting out to deep into their wine career, theres something for everyone.Shitty Wine Memes merchandise is fashionable, fun, and a great gift for that wine nerd in your life! And $1 per pin sold is donated to The Roots Fund. Check out daily wine humor content onInstagram@shittywinememesand theonline shop!

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https://www.instagram.com/offtherox/?hl=en

Sarita @VineMeUp

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Jeryl Cole of Off the Rox

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 14:43:39 GMT

Jeryl Cole of@offtheroxjoins the Swirl Suite this week. Maryland natives, Jeryl & Ty Cole desired a high-end wine and beer shop so they built one in their own neighborhood on the East Side of#Baltimore.

https://shop.offtheroxwine.com/

Collaboration Box

www.vinemeupdc.com/shop-1/p/beadsnbutterbox

Books and Bottles

fb.watch/8tow8Qx-dE/

The Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Michael Evans

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 13:50:37 GMT

Michael Evans founded The Vines in 2005 in Mendoza, Argentina, which is now expanding to 12 regions around the world. There are currently 17 founding members of The Vines global membership club, in addition to 240 making wine in Mendoza.

For background, fifteen years ago Michael went to Argentina from Los Angeles for what he thought would be a three-week vacation. He fell in love with the people and the place that is Mendoza and decided to embark on this adventure of creating Argentinas greatest wines. After a chance introduction to Pablo Gimenez Riili during that visit to Mendoza, Michael and Pablo began an endeavor together to provide the highest quality wine experience to Mendoza travelers and help those who love wine to make their own. The result was The Vines of Mendoza. With Pablo, Michael raised money from friends and family and purchased 650 acres of land in the Uco Valley, and created The Vines of Mendozas one-of-a-kind Private Vineyards. They've since sold vines to more than 185 owners from around the globe, and the property has expanded to 1,500 acres.

http://www.vinesofmendoza.com/private_vineyard/en/index.html

Collaboration Box

https://www.vinemeupdc.com/shop-1/p/beadsnbutterbox

Books and Bottles

https://fb.watch/8tow8Qx-dE/

The Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Monique Bell

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Monique Bell, professor of marketing at Fresno State, researches the intersections of business and culture. Her recent work has explored survey data of Black wine entrepreneurs in an industry lacking diversity. In fact, Black-owned wineries account for less than 1 percent of all U.S. wineries.

The Terroir Noir: 2020 Study of Black Wine Entrepreneurs survey respondents answered multiple questions related to their motivations for wine entrepreneurship, experiences with racism and other challenges, perceptions of the wine industrys inclusion efforts, business strategies and practices, and the impacts of COVID-19.

https://www.moniquebell.com/wine

https://www.instagram.com/thewynebelle/?hl=en

https://uncorkedandcultured.com/

The Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Restaurateur Tamy Rofe

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 15:32:56 GMT

Tamy Rofeis the sommelier, beverage director and partner of longstandingColonia Verdein Forte Green,Disco Tacosin Williamsburg andComparticatering in NYC.

To share some background Tamy entered into the world of restaurants when she and her husband Felip Donnelly (burnt out from their decade-long advertising jobs) started hosting intimate, weekly supper clubs,Thursday at Worth Street,in their apartment in 2010. The supper club led to their first restaurantComodoin Soho in 2012, and their secondColonia Verdein 2014. Around the timeComodoopened, Tamybecame a certified sommelier (also just 6 months after giving birth to her first child). Now, Tamy oversees all wine selections for James Beard award-nominated Latin American restaurantColonia Verdein Fort Greene, the newly openedDisco Tacosin Williamsburg, and the duo's popular catering company, Comparti.

As a sommelier, Tamy prioritizes approachable, fun and unexpected natural wines that draw in the community and create conversation. She is a firm believer in offering extensive selections of wines by the glass, so guests can easily explore new wines and have a bit of fun with their pairings. She'd be happy to speak to a number of topics, like why it's important to be mindful of how you speak about wine, not take your pairings too seriously, be open minded to new winemakers, and so much more.

The Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Restaurateur Aldo Z

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 13:25:40 GMT

Born in Belgium but raised in both his homeland and Italy,AldoZaninotto spent much of his time growing up at his fathers Italianrestaurant in the heart of Brussels. It wasthere, that his love for the restaurant industry took off.After graduating with honors from one of the top hospitality schools in Europe,CERIA, Zaninotto hadthe opportunity to learn and work in some of the best restaurants in Brussels.In 1988, he landed inNew York City where he continued to expand his resumeworking in some of thebest fine dining spots in the city like San Domenico and Le Perigord. From New York he moved toLos Angeles, holding various positions in fine dining restaurants includingLOrangerie, La Toque, Fleur de Vin,Celestino and Patina. Later, Zaninottosettledin Chicago after accepting the general manager position of Carlucci, aLincoln Parkinstitution at the time. In 1994, he opened Savarin in River North with legendary ChefJohn Hogan, and then DitkasRestaurant in 1995 before deciding to focus on another side of the business thatis very near and dear to his heart: wine. For the next 12 years Zaninotto travelled throughout America and Europe, building relationships within the worlds winemaking elite. Eventually, he became the import manager for many of Italys famed wineries and helped bring these labels to restaurants and stores throughout the states and Canada.After working as a full-time wine seller and representingsome of the best wineries fromPiemonte, Zaninotto wanted to bring his love of this particular region of Italy to the Logan Square community. In 2014 he opened his first restaurant, Osteria Langhe, a cozy, wine-focused eatery dedicated entirely to the traditions and flavors of Piemonte.After six successful years and garnering several noteworthy accolades for Osteria Langheas one of best Italian restaurants in Chicago as well as the US, Zaninotto wanted to introduce his love for another part of Italy, theneighborhood of Testaccio in Rome, and opened his second restaurant of the same name in 2020. Testaccio, also located in Logan Square, is a lively and welcoming dining spot and wine bar showcasing authentic Roman dishes and Italian staples in a casual setting. Zaninotto also acts as wine director for both restaurants, bringing only the highest quality and value-driven wines to his establishments.
Aldo's Restaurants: https://www.osterialanghe.com/https://www.testacciochicago.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/antoniogalloni/?hl=en

Sarita @VineMeUp

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Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Antonio Galloni

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 11:15:12 GMT

Antonio Galloni, born in Caracas/Venezuela, studied in the USA and went to Italy at the turn of the millennium, where he published the first English-language magazine on Italian wine: the Piedmont Report. In a short time he earned a high respect at Italian wineries. He held tailor-made seminars and events, including the highly acclaimed "Festa del Barolo". So he cameRobert Parkerto his attention and made him his Italy specialist and until 2013 even editor-in-chief of "The Wine Advocate".

Since May 2013, after his resignation as editor-in-chief, Galloni's wine ratings have been published under his trademark "Vinous" on the Internet, where he can find a "modern-day wine platform" in which the readers are involved in the communication. AlsoAntonio Galloniuses the 100-point system.

Follow Antonio:

https://www.instagram.com/vinousmedia/?hl=en

https://vinous.com/

Sarita's Activity Book:

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Sarita @VineMeUp

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Leslie @Vino301

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Maiah Johnson Dunn

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 11:59:21 GMT

Maiah Johnson Dunn is an accidental activist based in Upstate New York. She is the founder and host of Chasing Grapeness, a wine pairing dinner series focused on diversity, equity and inclusion in the wine industry. Alongside highlighting DEI, Maiah believes in telling heart-forward stories through her writing, speaking, and consulting, which she can now proudly call her full-time job.

The Boston native recently made Rochester her home, where she lives with her husband, dog, and two cats.

Follow Maiah:

https://www.instagram.com/thisismaiah/?hl=en

https://www.maiah.com/

Sarita's Activity Book:

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https://www.instagram.com/fetzerwine/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Fetzer Gewurztraminer

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 12:13:11 GMT

When it comes to the wine aisle,Fetzerdelivers delicious, quality wines that lead with an uncommon conscience, meeting the groundswell of demand for sustainable brands. Its also widely available in 50 states at your neighborhood supermarket or wine shop for under $10.

Fetzerhas only NOW (after 50+ years!) started talking about their sustainability efforts with afresh new packagethat actually tells consumers about their accomplishments on the bottle:

The first TRUE Zero waste winery--reusing or recycling 98% of waste.
Powered by solar and renewable energy
Saving water and reducing water intensity by 25%,Fetzerhas saved enough water to skip 2.3 million warm showers over the last 5 years.
Certified B Corp: Certified B Corporations balance purpose and profit. They are legally required to consider the impact of their decisions on their workers, customers, suppliers, community, and the environment.
Bringing clean water to communities and reducing plastics in our oceans through partnerships with fellow B corps like Soma reusable water bottles and Fill It Forward.

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https://fetzer.com/

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Sparkling, The Story of Champagne

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 20:09:49 GMT

Tanisha and I were able to view the upcoming documentary,SPARKLING: THE STORY OF CHAMPAGNE.Directed by Frank Mannion and featuring Vitalie Taittinger, Bruno Paillard, Stephen Fry, and Sir Nicholas Soames,SPARKLING: THE STORY OF CHAMPAGNEwill be available in select theaters and on demand on August 13th.

The film is a love letter to the joys and pleasures of champagne. Major champagne houses featured include Pol Roger (Winston Churchill famously drank over 40,000 bottles in his lifetime), Bollinger (appearing in 15 James Bond movies), as well as Piper-Heidsieck (Marilyn Monroe's favourite), Taittinger, JAY-Zs Armand de Brignac, Cristal, Veuve Clicquot and Queen Elizabeth II's vineyard at Windsor. It explores the legend of the French monk, Dom Perignon, who famously declared "I can taste the stars" when he discovered champagne, and examines the theory that the English actually invented champagne decades before Dom Perignon. It also looks at the impact of climate change. The champagne region is gradually becoming too hot leading to the likes of Pommery and Taittinger acquiring vineyards in southern England where the chalk soil is the same as the champagne region. The film was shot on location in France, England, New York and LA.

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FLX Recap

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 12:38:28 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, we recap our experience at the FLXcursion at Lake Geneva. Glynis and I sat on a panel titled "A Seat at the Table" and Leslie sat on the "Terrior and the Age of the Internet" panel.

This was our first conference pst COVID and we have a lot to share.

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Nicole of Vintnoir

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 15:35:35 GMT

Nicole is a wine enthusiast and alumni of the Napa Valley Wine Academy. Blessed to be a Bay Area native and true California girl, she cannot imagine a better place to have as her foundation.Also, it's pretty amazing having a world renowned wine region minutes within reach.

In 2018 she began to seriously consider her dream of pursuing a career in wine. Several classes and certifications later landed her here.

"VINTNOIR was born out of enthusiasm and love for wine, especially adesire to celebratediversity of vintners withall wine consumers. What I love about wine is that itbrings peopletogether. And in the spirit of inclusion I want to create a community sharing all things wine.

Approaching wine can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. My goal is to build confidence through knowledge of wine basics and have some fun with wine reviews.I look forward to sharing the journey of learning with youin the enjoyment ofwine. Cheers!"

Nicole, founder of Vintnoir

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Thatcher Baker-Briggs

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 20:00:11 GMT

Thatcher Baker-Briggs has dealt with more revered wines in his young career than most industry types do in a lifetime. Born in a small city in Canada, Thatcher knew from the age of 10 that restaurants were going to be his passion. His professional trajectory boasts key positions in kitchens and dining rooms of some of the most influential restaurants in the world including then three-Michelin starred Saison under Chef Joshua Skenes (2014-2017), the highly regarded Takazawa in Tokyo, and at two-Michelin starred COI in San Francisco. After working with the leadership team to oversee the opening of ANGLER in San Francisco, Thatcher sought to continue the ethos which had been instilled in him for many years; Comfort, and founded Thatcher's Wine Consulting in 2019. Based in the United States, Switzerland and Asia, Thatchers clients are leaders in a wide range of industries including technology, publishing, finance and politics. Thatcher has been featured in Eater, Esquire, The Manual.

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https://www.instagram.com/thatcherbakerbriggs

https://thatcherswineconsulting.com/

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Rosé Throwback

Sat, 12 Jun 2021 11:43:59 GMT

Its National Ros Day!

Enjoy this 2016 episode, where we dive into different styles of ros, producers and trends.

You can also watch this full episode on our YouTube channel.

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COVID Convo w Dr. Nadeen White

Thu, 27 May 2021 09:24:10 GMT

Dr. Nadeen White is a "Travel Blogger by Day, Physician by Night". She has over 20 years of experience practicing medicine & over 8 years of experience as a travel content creator. Her award-winning travel blog-The Sophisticated Life-covers affordable luxury travel, food & wine as well as health and medical topics related to travel. Nadeen is an O, The Oprah Magazine Brand Ambassador, a Board Member of the Black Travel Alliance & holds a WSET Level 2 wine certification. In addition, Dr. Nadeen White has appeared on CNN, is a sought-after speaker, and an Amazon bestselling author for her series of travel E-Books.

Follow Dr Nadeen:

https://www.instagram.com/thesophislife/

https://thesophisticatedlife.com/

https://twitter.com/thesophislife

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Hispanics In Wine

Wed, 12 May 2021 16:05:43 GMT

Cofounders Maria Calvert and Lydia Richards met while working in wine public relations at Colangelo & Partners, a well-known agency with offices in New York and California. Calvert, a native of Quito, Ecuador, is currently working as an independent Public Relations Consultant with a focus on startup and established brands in wine and food, while Richards, who hails from Panama, recently started a job as PR Manager at Taub Family Companies: Palm Bay International and Taub Family Selections.

At this time Hispanics in Wine has more than 30 members and is prepared to grow as word spreads within the wine and hospitality industries. Hispanics in Wine aims to encourage and connect people from diverse backgrounds to pursue their career path in the industry through the organization. It also intends to help wine brands and companies cater to the Latinx population in the U.S., whose buying power is forecasted to top $1.9 trillion by 2023.

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https://www.instagram.com/hispanicsinwine/

https://www.instagram.com/vinoconcierge/

https://www.instagram.com/mariarcalvert/

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https://www.instagram.com/burgerandwines/

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Janelle of Burger & Wines

Wed, 05 May 2021 11:12:35 GMT

An obsession with stories took Janelle from the corner of her grandmothers couch, buried in a book to newspaper staffs around the country. After graduating from Hampton University in 2004, Janelle covered local government in Chillicothe, Ohio, Shreveport, La. and Roanoke, Va. Eventually Janelle discovered wine and began pairing local food with whatever she was sipping on.

In 2021, the#BlackWinestoryMonthIG Tour, where 28 black wine professionals told their origin story that led them to wine.

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California Sparklers

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 13:49:25 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, we catch up and taste through 2 California sparkling wines.

Decoy

Sea Smoke

https://www.seasmoke.com/#wines

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Derrick C. Westbrook

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 09:30:11 GMT

Before turning 30, Westbrook became the Cellar Manager of Alinea Groups NEXT restaurant, and the Beverage Director of the Michelin-starred, Elizabeth restaurant in Chicago. The sommelier was later recognized for his professional contributions by Wine Enthusiast magazine as a 40 Under 40 Tastemaker, becoming the first African-American in the wine industry to grace the publications cover.

Today, Westbrook continues to break barriers in the wine industry while bridging the gap between spirits and culture, through curated dinners and experiential wine tastings. His signature event series, Samples & Samples pairs select wines with music from various genres, creating a unique, sensory experience for attendees. Westbrook has toured nationally, bringing Samples & Samples to City Winery locations across the U.S. with multiple sold out shows.

Westbrook has also hosted private events for major brands and corporations, including a fragrance and wine pairing for Chanel, and a custom Samples & Samples experience for Hilton with critically acclaimed musician Sharon Van Etten. In an effort to combat the lack of diversity in the wine industry, he shared his story at Twitters Many Shades of Wine panel event in New York.

Follow Derrick:

https://www.instagram.com/derrickcwestbrook/

https://www.derrickcwestbrook.com/

Emeritus Winery

https://www.emeritusvineyards.com/

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Allison Wilson of Cliff Lede Vineyards

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 23:05:16 GMT

As Director of Vineyard Operations at Napa Valley-based Cliff Lede Vineyards, Allison Wilson is responsible for overseeing all farming and redevelopment of the winerys three estate vineyards in the Stags Leap District, Carneros, and Calistoga AVAs. She works closely with the internal winemaking team to develop and implement the vineyard departments farming protocols, while also managing all of Cliff Lede Vineyards external grower relations.

A native of Contra Costa County, California, Allisons introduction to grape growing was through harvest celebrations and weekend visits to her great uncles nearby Livermore Valley vineyard, cementing her interest in agriculture from a young age. After graduating California Polytechnic University as a Fruit Science major in 2012, Allison jump-started her career in Napa as assistant viticulturist at Renteria

Vineyard Management, where she eventually worked her way up to become viticulturist in 2014. Eager to cultivate her career, owner Oscar Renteria encouraged Allison to join the Napa Valley Grapegrowers Association to deepen her ties within Napa Valley. This opportunity with the Grapegrowers ultimately led her to meet the team at Cliff Lede Vineyards. In January of 2015, Allison was hired as viticulturist and, in 2018, she became director of vineyard operations.

Allison is still involved with the Napa Valley Grapegrowers and is currently the chair of the Marketing and Communications Committee. Additionally, Allison serves on the Cultural Practices Industry Review Committee for the American Vineyard Foundation and is a California Licensed Pest Control Advisor. In her free time, Allison enjoys spending time with her dog and teaching yoga.

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https://www.instagram.com/cliffledevineyards/

https://cliffledevineyards.com/

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https://www.instagram.com/fiddleheadchef/

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Chef Lauren Cummings

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 04:04:00 GMT

Lauren Cummings began working in restaurants in the Washington, DC area at age 14. She was thrilled to meet Chef Rachael Ray during her senior year of high school, then to meet Chef Emeril Lagasse just after graduation. After earning her BA from The University of Maryland, College Park, Lauren moved to Lima, Peru, where she learned Spanish and worked as a bartender. Lauren returned to the USA to serve in social services; but soon realized her passion was still in the kitchen.

In 2017 she began working with several personal chefs and top caterers in the Washington, DC area while studying Culinary Arts and Management at The Art Institute of Washington. As a first year student, Lauren won the inauguralArt InstituteGrand Chef Challenge, aChopped-style competition.

Lauren launched the Fiddlehead Chef in April 2018. Since then she has been privileged to:

cook with Chef Daniel Boulud at a private event
prepare food for former President George W. Bush at a private event
be featured onTheJealous VeganPodcast
partner with the Dumbarton House museum for theirTea and Honey Tastingevent, and
collaborate with Nourish Culinary Company to prepare meals for private clients

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https://www.fiddleheadchef.com/

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Peter Molnar of Obsidian Wine

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 13:24:32 GMT

Peter began his adventures in wine as a teenager, suckering and tying vines and driving irrigation tractors during summers in the vineyard where his father grew grapes for Napa Valley wineries. He moved to Budapest, Hungary in 1990, working in the World Bank and USAID programs to privatize the countrys wine industry after the fall of communism. In the four years before returning home to manage the family vineyard in 1994, Peter helped build a winery, started a ngociant company, and began collaborating with Kdr Hungary, a cooperage located in the renowned Tokaj region, that the Molnars now own, in partnership with the de Pracomtal family of Taransaud Cooperage, in Cognac. In 1995, the Molnars teamed up with winemaker Michael Terrien to vinify their first Pinot Noir from Poseidon Vineyard, aged in Kdr barrels. They discovered an abandoned walnut orchard on the volcanic slopes of the high Mayacamas Mountains of Lake County, California in 1998; an ideal site, they believed, to grow mountain fruit. After planting in 1999 and 2000, they debuted their first Obsidian Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon in 2002 and their first Poseidon Vineyard Chardonnay the following year.

When not in the vineyards or at the cooperage, Peter travels to winemaking regions around the world to collaborate with barrel customers. A lifelong sailor and open water swimmer, Peter is also a licensed Merchant Marine Captain and Master who applies his skills and experience to support and fund marine conservation, working with San Francisco Baykeeper, Point Blues Farallon Patrol, and the University of Florida Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience. He resides in Berkeley with his wife, Jess, 15-year-old twins, Eszter and Gabriel, and dog, Jericho.

https://www.obsidianwineco.com/

https://www.instagram.com/obsidianwineco/

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tastingdark.com/taste-awardsvieweoice-2021-voting/

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Mermosa Wines w Desiree Noisette

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 21:55:59 GMT

Some might call Desiree Noisette a renaissance woman; others may refer to her as a real-life mermaid. Both are true. As the founder of Mermosa Wines, Floridas first Black woman-owned wine company, she brings a unique blend of intelligence and creativity with a splash of mystery and magic to the brand. Desiree has always had a sharp mind for business and finance, so she pursued an undergraduate degree in accounting from University of Florida. She went on to study law at University of North Carolina and began her career as an attorney at a large commercial litigation firm in Tampa. Desiree loved the intellectual aspect of law, but after practicing law for several years, she decided she didnt want to argue or think about arguing for a living. Instead, Desiree wanted to do something that made people, especially women, feel good about themselves. That dream became a reality in 2012, when she opened Cerulean Blu, a swim and resort wear boutique in St. Petersburg, Fla. While running her shop, she began creating her own resortwear designs that were sold to retailers across the country. Cerulean Blu had a loyal following of clientele who frequented the shop for its unique, flattering designs and personalized service that included a glass of wine. She enjoyed serving various wines in her boutique, but Desiree wanted a very specific flavor profile that she discovered wasnt on the market. In 2017, Desirees entrepreneurial spirit and determination led her to create Mermosa Wines, a brand that honors her family legacy of sirens and celebrates everyones inner mermaid. The brand welcomes everyone to the party at the beach, on a boat, having brunch or getting together with friends and family. For more information, visit Mermosa.com.

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Margo Gabriel

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:22:47 GMT

Margo Gabriel is a freelance writer from Boston, MA and is based in Lisbon, Portugal. Her writing has been published in Boston Art Review, Cuisine Noir, Edible Boston, Popsugar and Solstice Literary Magazine.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9lJ6OSitzY&feature=youtu.be

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Dame Tonya Pitts

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 11:54:43 GMT

An industry changemaker and compassionate role model, Tonya Pitts is known globally as a multi-talented wine professional who catapults wineries, winemakers and brands into the mainstream. Equally important, she is a leader who champions diversity and inclusion in the hospitality, food and beverage industries. Tonya is a certified sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers and a member of Les Dames dEscoffier International, a by-invitation philanthropic organization of women leaders in the fields of food, fine beverage and

hospitality. Her extensive careerwhich has been shaped primarily by women chefs and restaurant ownersspans multiple fine-dining establishments in San Francisco. Since 2012, her award-winning wine programs have received Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator, which recognizes the breadth and depth of her 600-selection list along with her superior wine knowledge and presentation skills.

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https://twitter.com/noirsommelier

https://www.tonyapitts.com/

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Wine Kodjo

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 11:47:28 GMT

Kodjo is a Certified Italian Wine Professional and Vinitaly International Academy Italian Wine Ambassador. He is the first person of African descent to qualify as an Italian Wine Ambassador. Kodjo is the founder and sommelier at Africa Wine Club which seeks to bring club members together to explore wine, food, culture, and business across the continent of Africa. Kodjo has also led travel groups to explore the joys of Italian food and wine on guided tours in places like Milan, Bologna, Umbria, Venice, Verona, and the Valpollicela. Kodjo holds an MBA from the Yale School of Management, an MS degree in Financial Mathematics from the University of Chicago, and BS in Physics from Hampton University.

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https://www.instagram.com/winekodjo/

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Chef and Wine Girl

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 10:46:21 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, I talk with power couple, Brenae Royal & Chef Joseph L. Paire III. A dating app brought them together and the rest is a black Hallmark ending. They started a YouTube channel, Chef and Wine Girl to share their connection. These 2 will upgrade your life with fun and educational food and wine pairings.

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https://www.instagram.com/chefandwinegirl/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyF-EFR6pSM&feature=youtu.be

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Wine & Politics w Bri

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 22:17:41 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, we discuss tariffs, lobbying and wine with friend fo the podcast, Brionna Jimmerson.

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https://www.instagram.com/bribookspod/

https://www.instagram.com/brionnajay/

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https://www.wsj.com/articles/wave-of-black-politicians-takes-office-in-brazil-11609529832

Sarita @VineMeUp

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Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Articles discussed:

https://www.wine-business-international.com/wine/analysis/mixing-wine-and-politics

http://famousdrinkers.com/occupation/politicians/

https://www.foodandwine.com/news/wine-tariffs-take-effect

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Food & Family w Sabrina

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 22:30:59 GMT

Sabrina Ransom is a professionally trained chef that enjoys teaching others how to expand their palate and make great food with accessibleingredients. As a small business owner she hand blends spices and produces small batch artisansauces to help others accomplish the goal. You can find food inspiration, recipes and shoppable items on her websitemyforkintheroad.com

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https://www.instagram.com/myfork_intheroad/

https://www.myforkintheroad.com/

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Shakera Jones

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 16:59:32 GMT

Shakera Jones ofBlackGirlsDineTooa lifestyle brand, blog, and social media spaceserves as a guide to the wonderful world of high-end food and wine; a need she identified from her own experiences exploring her passion for food, wine, and culture in this space. Shakera hosts bi-weekly virtual tastings, exploring grape varietals, production, and regions to broaden the palates of her followers through her welcoming teaching style and warm personality. A tech professional by day and wine student by night, she is currently studying to obtain certification through the Court of Master Sommeliers and Spanish Wine Scholar program with the Wine Scholar Guild. An aspiring wine journalist she has written pieces forSevenFiftyDailyand is one of the new cast membersofSommTV.

Shakera thrives on bringing people together. In her role, Shakera will plan virtual BWP community events and when the world eventually opens up, in person BWP events. You can find her on all social media at @blackgirlsdinetoo.

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1.6.2021

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 21:41:37 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, we candidly relive the events of January 6, 2021. Luckily we had some great wine to lift our spirits. Wine from we wine from Two Old Dogs. We discuss the nuances of the Saint Helena Sauvignon Blanc, Ros, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

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https://twoolddogs.com/

https://www.instagram.com/twoolddogscellars/

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Ending 2020 After Dark

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 12:37:47 GMT

We conclude 2020 with an After Dark episode with Rae Mathis. This conversation is full of twists and turns but full of life.

Feel free to watch the unedited version on YouTube.

YouTube Link

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZa4pg30o18

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https://twitter.com/vermillionpearl

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Thanksgiving 2020

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 12:21:14 GMT

On this mini episode of The Swirl Suite, we ask our wine family what wines they are drinking on Thanksgiving.

Guests:

Keith - https://www.instagram.com/vinepairkeith/

Nicole - https://www.instagram.com/sipandsharewines/

Frank - https://www.instagram.com/drinkwhatyoulike/

Marcia - https://www.instagram.com/bubbles_n_bourbon/

Jaton - https://www.instagram.com/jatongunter/

Chasity - https://www.instagram.com/chasityscooper/

Alleigh -https://www.instagram.com/alleigh77/

De - https://www.instagram.com/brainsnbuns/

Bri - https://www.instagram.com/brionnajay/

Melissa - https://www.instagram.com/brionnajay/

Tanisha - https://www.instagram.com/girlmeetsglass/

Sarita - https://www.instagram.com/vinemeup/

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Sarita @VineMeUp

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Leslie @Vino301

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Alicia & Mari of Coco Noir

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 23:01:40 GMT

On this episode of The Swirl Suite, we talk to Alicia and Mari of Coco Noir. Within a month of launching their Wefunder campaign in anticipation of opening Oaklands first Black-owned woman wine shop to be located downtown, Alicia Kidd and Mari Kemp are realizing the importance of building a community space for wine lovers of diverse cultures and knowledge levels.CoCo Noir WineShop & Bar is slated to open during the first quarter of 2021at 13th and Webster and will focus on BIPOC and women-owned brands paired with a curated menu of small bites by local Black chefs. Kidd and Kemp are planning to launch their vision for CoCo Noir after years of experience in business and the wine industry and seeing a need to expand the wine narratives and representation when it came to BIPOC and women producers.

Coco Noir

https://www.coconoirwine.com/

https://www.instagram.com/coconoirwineshop/

Alicia

https://www.instagram.com/thewinenoire/

Mari

https://www.instagram.com/marikemp1/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Wine, Pet Rats, & Politics w Justin

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 11:36:31 GMT

On this episode of The Swirl Suite, we chat with young winemaker & DC native, Justin Trabue.

4th generation native of Washington, DC, Justin moved to California in 2013. Named after the iconic Justin Isosceles, wine was always in her future. Justin has had the opportunity to study abroad in Adelaide, Australia and after turning 21 Justin decided to begin working with Lumen wines under the Cal Poly Wine Internship program. She has worked her way up to Assistant Winemaker after spending a sabbatical In Hawkes Bay, NZ at Pask Winery. You can also find her at Ancient Peaks Winery where she is Hospitality Supervisor. When she is not in the cellar you can find her in the kitchen, watching scary films, or chatting over a glass of wine.

Follow Justin:

https://www.instagram.com/jmedici320/

https://www.instagram.com/lumenwines/

The Wine Concierge Club

https://www.instagram.com/thewineconciergeclub/

https://thewineconcierge.co/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Ladies of Philosophy

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 12:02:30 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, we chat with the ladies behind the first black female owned winery, Philosophy Winery. This winery was 7 years in the making. Kimberly, the winemaker, had volunteered at a collection of wine festivals and spent a number of years working at Old Westminster. Denise, the sommelier, found her love for wine through cognac. These 2 have been been friends for 15 years and decided they would make excellent business partners. After one discussion, Philosophy Winery was created.

https://philosophywinery.com/

https://www.instagram.com/philosophywinery/

https://www.facebook.com/philosophywinery/

Black Business Shout Out:

https://www.hairandspace.com/salon-details

https://offtheroxwine.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Marcy Gordon

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 14:27:07 GMT

This week on The Swirl Suite, we chat with friend, Marcy Gordon. Marcy Gordon is a freelance wine and travel writer. She received her degree in Journalism from the University of Florida. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications including Wine Enthusiast, Forbes Travel Guide, and San Francisco Chronicle. She was a fellow at the 2017 Symposium for Professional Wine Writers

She is the Founder and Executive Director ofWriting Between the Vines, a literary arts program that provides writers with one-week writing retreats on vineyard estates. Her blog Come for the Wine was named one of the Top 100 Most Influential Wine Blogs in 2015.

Prior to her freelance writing career she worked in consumer marketing for many years and was part of the team that launched Travelocity and OpenTable, serving as Director of Marketing and Vice President of Marketing.

Follow Marcy:

https://www.marcygordon.com/

https://www.writingbetweenthevines.org/

Marcy's Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wine-road-the-wine-when-and-where-of-northern-sonoma-county/id1118810500?mt=2

Wilma's Batter

https://www.sincerelywilma.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Sparkling Wine

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 23:44:08 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, the whole gang is back and bubbles are on the brain. We taste through a few bottles of sparkling wine from distributor, Vineyard Brands and describe what we love. Glynis also gives us a review of her new Peloton bike. Towards the end of the show, we give our candid thoughts on the debate.

Check Out Vineyard Brands:

http://www.vineyardbrands.com

https://www.instagram.com/vineyardbrands/#

Follow The Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Kat The Corkscrew Concierge

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 11:32:26 GMT

Katrina is a corporate tax lawyer who also is a Certified Specialist of Wine and has earned her Wine and Spirits Trust Level 3 Award in Wines passing with Merit.For years shed always thought of writing about wine, travel, and other things she loves but always put it off. And she admits she wasnt very technologically savvy and with the exception of a couple of social networking sites. Still, shed happily send friends and family full itineraries for trips they were taking. She would get requests asking about wineries that excelled in a specific grape, how to tackle a large European city and get in all the must-see sights, or where to eat for a few days in New Orleans the full gamut. Even when she hadnt been somewhere or experienced it, she would gladly research it for them. She is a lawyer and a good part of her job entails research so she is actually pretty good at it. And besides, it was just something she enjoyed doing. Kat launched https://thecorkscrewconcierge.com/ in 2016.

Follow Kat

https://www.instagram.com/thecorkscrewconcierge/

https://thecorkscrewconcierge.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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The Ladies of Tfluxe

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 21:00:48 GMT

Ty-Juana is a consumer who fell in love with building community over a beverage and shes responsible for the growth, stability, vision, and direction of TFLUX. She came up with the idea of TFLUX out of frustration after a variety of unwelcoming experiences while navigating certain food and beverage spaces in her hometown. Through TFLUX she enjoys meeting and collaborating with other Black/POC women in the beverage industry, supporting producers of color, and educating consumers according to their taste palate. Shes an arts administrator at Berklee College of Music and enjoys traveling, visiting museums, and eating her way through Boston.

Charlene is responsible for the operations and strategic vision of TFLUX. She works closely with the owner/founder to build and curate the framework of all components that relate to the business and also works on external partnerships with vendors and sponsors. During her free time Charlene can be found searching for the next best book to read and managing her own consulting business.

Suhayl lives for pleasures great and small and everything in-between. Ever the super-connector, she serves as the bridge between TFLUX and the hospitality industry connecting the very best food, wine, beer and spirits to the TFLUX experience. In her 5 to 9 and beyond she can be found chasing street art, enjoying a fine cigar, geeking out on how chocolate is made, or seeking out the best oysters to shuck by the water.

Follow Tfluxe:

http://www.tfluxe.com/

https://www.instagram.com/tfluxe/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/melschulte/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Melissa Schulte of Black Ankle Vineyards

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 11:06:03 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, we talk with the General Manager of Black Vineyards. Before joining Black Anklein 2009, Melissa's career spanned from supporting entrepreneurs in their pursuits for funding to legislative research for a U. S. senator.Melissa has had the opportunity to help Black Ankle grow from its' beginnings to what it is today, and is looking forward to being part of what it becomes in the future.Mel (as most people call her)lives in Taylorsville with her husband and two children, lots of goats, ponies, and chickens.

Follow Melissa & Black Ankle

https://www.instagram.com/blackanklevineyards/

https://www.blackankle.com/

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https://www.instagram.com/hiphopjuicebox/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Eric Turner of Hip Hop Juice Box

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 11:30:55 GMT

Hip Hop Juice Box is a concept thats been years in the making. Eric Turner has called Emeryville home for the last 10 years. Its a small city between San Fran & Oakland. Although he helped open Emeryville sports bar, Hometown Heroes and works at a local pest control company managing the sales department, hes always been interested in running his own business. He played with ideas like starting a mobile coffee business before settling on a juice and smoothie bar. He got into juicing a few years ago, he said, when he was about to get married. Wanting to lose a few pounds for the wedding and eat healthier, he started making his own juices on a daily basis with fresh produce, a routine that was new to him.

Then an espresso bar, across the street from Hometown Heroes closed and Eric (along with three friends who are partners in the business) jumped on it. Hip Hop Juice Box was born.

Follow Hip Hop Juice Box

Wine Media Conference - FREE

https://www.winemediaconference.org/virtual/summit-agenda/

In Good Taste

ingoodtaste.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/bedvyne/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Michael and Rotimi of Bed-Vyne

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 12:29:56 GMT

Bed-Vyne Wine opened in October 2011 the first of what would soon be two more popular businesses serving the neighborhood: the bars Bed-Vyne Brew and Bed-Vyne Cocktail. Michael Brooks knew there was going to be an untapped market of professionals that were looking for services that didnt exist at this point. Him and business partners, Rotimi and Ayo Akinnuoye and his fraternity brother, Peter Medford were able to be a pioneer. They are giving Brooklyn residents everything they need in wine, craft beer, craft cocktails and craft spirits.

Follow Bed-Vyne:

https://bed-vyne.com/

https://www.instagram.com/cocktailbrooklyn/

https://www.instagram.com/bedvyne/

Bed-Vyne App

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.cityhive.store.bedvyne&hl=en

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bed-vyne/id1082539897

In Good Taste

ingoodtaste.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/chatsliquors/?hl=en

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Burnie Williams of Chats Wine & Liquor

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 13:06:39 GMT

Burnie Williams is a 2nd generation African American, small business owner in Washington DC. Chats Liquors was a pioneer of alcoholic beverage retail immediately following the1934 repeal of Prohibition in Washington, DC,when Mr. Neil Chatlin was one of the first to be granted an alcoholic beverage license.This makes Chats the oldest business on 8th.They have operated out of the originallocation at 503 8th St SE, on whats now recognized as Historic Barracks Row, 8th Street SE, between the Eastern Market Metro at Pennsylvania Ave to the north and terminating at the Navy Yard, as 8th St intersects M St SE, to the south.This stretch of 8th Street was the first commercial corridor in the Nations Capital, is only 8 blocks from the United States Capitol building and is home to the US Marine Corps at 8th & I, the Oldest Post of the Corps, established in 1801.

Follow Burnie at Chats:

https://www.chatsdc.com/

CHAT'S LIQUORS

503 8TH STREET, SE

WASHINGTON, DC 20003, US

+1 202-544-4660

bw@chatsliquors.com

In Good Taste

ingoodtaste.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/tuanniprice/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

SA Wine Ban w Tuanni Price

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 13:44:59 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, we talk to Tuanni Price of Zuri Wine Tours. Zuri Wine Tasting provides professional wine services including wine tasting classes, tours, wine list consulting, education and small-to-large scale events for enthusiasts, corporate and non-profit clients. We host travel and events in Los Angeles, California and Cape Town, South Africa.

Tuanni describes quarantine in South Africa and the ban on all alcohol.

Follow Tuanni

https://www.zuriwine.com/store/p222/wineoverladiversitywineroute.html

In Good Taste

https://ingoodtaste.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/elevateyourtastes/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Elevating Tastes w Vince

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 09:00:00 GMT

This week on The Swirl Suite, Sarita chats with wine elevator, Vince Moten of Elevate Your Tastes. Vince began his career as a sales representative for a distributor in DC during the summer of 2013.In this episode you will hear where he fell into wine and never turned back.

Follow Vince:

https://elevateyourtastes.com/

Black Business Shout Out:

https://www.instagram.com/offtherox/

https://offtheroxwine.com/

The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/terroirny/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Paul of TerriorNY

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 13:01:39 GMT

Due to technical issues, Paul and I moved our live interview to podcast style. Paul is the owner of Terrior Tribeca in New York City. "As it relates specifically to wine, Terroir was viewed as a sandbox: our place to play, with our toys and our rules and our friends. The intimacy and connection we were able to have as a staff and with our guests further enlightened us to what wine could truly be: it could be everything. And an engagement with it could cause you to truly change your world view. The world of Terroir continues to push all boundaries in the wine world (though Marco and I parted ways in 2014)."

Follow Paul:

SwirlSuite@gmail.com

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Racism in the Wine Industry

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 18:38:02 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, we re-introduce ourselves to new listeners and we have a in depth conversation about how black people are treated in the wine industry.

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/drhowardconyers/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

BBQ Black History & Wine

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 19:21:38 GMT

We felt like this would be a perfect time to highlight some black history so we invited Dr. Howard Conyers. Dr Conyers carries a number of interesting titles Ph. D. graduate, aerospace engineer, guest lecturer and historian, traditional whole hog BBQ pitmaster. On June 20, he will add another television celebrity. We watched his guest appearance on Man Fire Food followed by an enlightening discussion.

www.youtube.com/PBSNourish,

www.howardconyers.com

www.fromthelowcountrytothebayou.com.

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/meaghanwmarketing/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Wine Marketing When the World Is In Crisis

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 01:17:36 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, we talk marketing with wine photographer and social media strategist, Meaghan Webster. Meaghan Webster is currently Marketing Manager at First Batch Hospitality, the group behind urban winemaking and events at Brooklyn Winery in NY, District Winery in DC, and the soon-to-open RiNo Point Winery in Denver.

Follow Meaghan

https://meaghanwebster.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/vermillionpearl/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Black Bean Soup w Rae Mathis

Thu, 21 May 2020 11:24:51 GMT

On this episode of The Swirl Suite, we go after dark with author and photographer, Rae Mathis. We catch up, drink wine and answer a list of entertaining, random questions.

Follow Rae:

https://www.untitled1975.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.linganorewines.com/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Melissa Aellen of Linganore Winecellars

Fri, 08 May 2020 12:04:38 GMT

Melissa grew up in the Linganore Winecellars family business. The daughter of executive winemaker Anthony Aellen, she has bachelors degrees in viticulture and enology, and has worked in seven wineries across the country and in New Zealand, learning the art of winemaking.

Melissa gives us some history of Linganore and talks about her journey to winemaking.

Follow Melissa:

https://www.instagram.com/linganorewinecellars/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

http://www.alishasommer.com/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Music Credit: https://www.bensound.com

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Alisha of SommerSalt

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 23:12:03 GMT

On this episode of The Swirl Suite, the gang chats with writer and photographer, Alisha Sommer. Alisha founded and edited a print literary journal (Blackberry: a magazine), published personal essays, creative nonfiction, and poetry for a variety of online and print publications, ghostwritten, collaborated with Angela Burke forBlack Food & Beverage, and taught at Squam Art Workshops. She says she is "just a storyteller". She has a sweet little blog calledSommersalt, where I talk about my essentials for living: food, wine, and words.

Follow Alisha:

https://www.instagram.com/alisha_sommer/

Follow Swirl Suite:

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/drinkwhatyoulike/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Eggs & Eggplant with Frank Morgan

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 10:00:30 GMT

Long time friend of the Swirl Suite and Virginia wine expert, Frank Morgan joins the podcast to talk wine and many other topics.

A Virginia native, Frank Morgan works in the Legal and Data Privacy group of a global company by day. He is the author of the DrinkWhatYouLike.com wine blog, started seven years ago to chronicle his wine travel experiences and to share stories of the wines, wineries, and winegrowers of Virginia. His site was recently named one of the top wine news blogs by Millesima. Morgan is also a contributor for edibleDC magazine, the wine site Snooth, founder of the monthly virtual wine tasting series Virginia Wine Chat (started in 2013), and is the associate editor of Virginia Wine Lover Magazine, the only print magazine dedicated to the states wine industry.

When not writing to raise awareness of the local wine industry or taking Wine & Spirit Education Trust classes, he can be found playing at the park with his daughter or reading his way through every published work of David Foster Wallace.

Follow Frank:

https://drinkwhatyoulike.wordpress.com/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Just Us

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 12:25:16 GMT

On this episode of The Swirl suite, corona is still a hot topic. We discuss our week 2 in quarantine and how we are utilizing this idle time. And of course, what we are drinking.

Follow The Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Corona Check In

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 11:32:12 GMT

This episode is all about the corona virus and how it's affecting our lives, our businesses and the entire wine industry.

Follow Swirl Suite:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u_Bc53gUE60

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Jean Wandimi of The Wine & Food Review

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 11:56:35 GMT

Sarita and Tanisha close out Black History Month with Jean Wandimi of The Wine & Food Review. Jean lives in Nairobi, Kenya and has a love for food & wine. You can find her wandering in wine bars and restaurants. She loves attending wine tastings and doing restaurant reviews. As a burgeoning wine connoisseur, her goal is to teach people about wine and to inspire a wine drinking culture. She is also passionate about cocktails, mocktails and anything related to beverages.

Follow Jean:

http://thewineandfoodreview.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jeanwandimi/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.loveleewine.com/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Lovelee Wine w Aamira

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 12:26:37 GMT

Sarita & Leslie talk with New Jersey winemaker, Aamira Garba. After finally reading TheAlchemist by Paulo Coelho, founder and creator of LoveLee Wine, Aamira Garba, knew shehad to stop searching for happiness and just create it.LoveLee Wine was born out of love andthe pursuit of Passion. The brand was birthed with the notion that no one should ever feel stuckin their lives, but be blessed enough to follow their passions in life.

Follow Aamira:

https://www.instagram.com/loveleewine/

Vino301 Wine Cruise:

https://vino301.com/wine-cruise

Follow Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/shoesnboozeblog/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

THROWBACK - Blacks in the Beverage Industry

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 16:08:05 GMT

We decided to post a fan favorite for Black History Month. This episode was posted 3 years ago with special guest, Nafeesa of Shoes and Booz. We candidly discussed blacks in wine, spirits & beer. Check it out and let us know what you think.

Follow Nafeesa

http://www.shoesbooze.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jatongunter/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Jaton Gunter

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 15:55:48 GMT

Jaton Gunter joins Sarita to talk about his path to wine and his book, Fruit in a Glass. His love for women actually brought him to wine and eventually he became fascinated with learning and teaching others.

Follow Jaton:

http://www.fruitinglass.com/

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Dee https://www.instagram.com/brainsnbuns/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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21 Questions w Bad & Boozy

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 01:52:52 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, Dee & SoSo of the Bad and Boozy Podcast join Sarita to sip & cackle. They reflect on Kobe, the lives he touched and discuss how they are handling his death. They lighten the episode by playing 21 questions. Feel free to tweet or instagram us your answers.

Follow:

Bad and Boozy Pod https://www.instagram.com/badandboozypod/

SoSo https://www.instagram.com/fabfreshandfly/

https://www.thewinenoire.com/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Alicia Maria of The Wine Noire

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 00:43:28 GMT

Alicia Maria of The Wine Noire, joins the Swirl Suite to talk about her journey to distributing wine. Her company is a young company and they specialize in South African, Brazilian, French, and California wines.Her goal as a black woman is to sell wines to people of color, especially African-Americans to up our palette.

Follow Alicia Maria:

https://www.instagram.com/thewinenoire/

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https://www.instagram.com/sipqueer/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Wine On a Dime With Will

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 11:48:36 GMT

Happy New Year! The Swirl Suite kicks off 2020 with wine blogger, William SipQueer, formally known as CorkQueer on Instagram. We dive into wines you can find for $15 and under, where you can find them and the best wine happy hours.

Follow William:

https://thecorkqueer.wordpress.com/2019/10/18/a-guide-to-thanksgiving-wine/

Follow The Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/msotisregrets/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Best of 2019

Sun, 22 Dec 2019 02:43:18 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, Sarita chats with Leslie, Tanisha and special guest, Mixologist Melissa about the best wine moments of 2019. Feel free to chime in about your favorite 2019 moments.

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

Follow Melissa:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Holiday Chatter

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 20:58:44 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, Sarita and Tanisha chat about the holidays. Wine gifts, advent calendars and Christmas in Paris.

Follow Swirl Suite:

http://www.grandcata.com/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Julio & Pedro of The Grand Cata

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 18:49:57 GMT

Happy Wine Wednesday & Happy Beaujolais Nouveau Day! We talk Thanksgiving wines with founders of The Grand Cata Latin Wine Shop, PEDRO J. RODRGUEZ and JULIO R. ROBLEDO. They tell us how they met and their journey to opening a much needed, Latin wine show in the bustling Shaw neighborhood of DC. Make sure you have your pen and pad because they break down 4 wine selections from their store and explain the origin and characteristics.

Follow Grand Cata:

https://www.instagram.com/grandcata/

Follow Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Sponsor:

https://www.instagram.com/galerestate/

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Virginia of Galer Estate

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 11:48:14 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, Sarita shares audio from Andr Mack's book release party at City Winery. In his book, "99 Bottles: A Black Sheep's Guide to Life Changing Wines", he tells intimate stories of his wine journey and the bottles that moved him.

Sarita also chats with Virginia Mitchell, winemaker at Galer Estate. Sarita & Virginia met in September during a Pennsylvania wine press trip. Virginia shares her story and they talk about the wine industry in Pennsylvania.

Follow:

https://www.galerestate.com/

99 Bottles

https://www.instagram.com/andrehmack/

https://www.amazon.com/99-Bottles-Black-Sheeps-Life-Changing/dp/1419734571/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=99+bottles&qid=1573127139&s=books&sr=1-1

http://www.balthasar-ress.de/en/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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WineLair

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 21:04:04 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, Sarita records from the Ritz in West End. She chats with Christian Ress, Steven Buttlar and Brian Karlisch from the exclusive wine club, WineLair. They give details about this upscale wine club and how the idea came about.

https://www.winelair.com/

Follow Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Sponsor:

https://abalancedglass.com/

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The Sober Movement?

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 11:08:19 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, the topic is The Sober Movement and what is Sober Curious? Right now, its popular to be sober and its all over social media. Sarita breaks down the growth of this movement and all the resources.

Sober Curious by Ruby Warrington

https://www.amazon.com/Sober-Curious-Blissful-Limitless-Connection/dp/0062914561/ref=asc_df_0062914561/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=343252348283&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=5495728058287763901&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9061283&hvtargid=pla-601990201613&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=69758511580&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=343252348283&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=5495728058287763901&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9061283&hvtargid=pla-601990201613

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https://www.instagram.com/georgewalks3/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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George of Graped Out

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 09:39:14 GMT

George Washington Carver Walker, III became a Level 1 Sommelier at 21 and graduated from the Culinary Institute of Michigan soon after. He has worked in positions all around West Michigan including Grove, i-lixir Beverage and SpartanNash. Through these companies, and by learning from other OGs in the wine game, George sharpened his skills and built a diverse network of wine loving friends across the globe.

Now, George is determined to change the culture and perspective of wine through Graped Out. He remembers the days when he didnt know the difference between a cabernet sauvignon and a sauvignon blanc and seeing very few wine-makers, sommeliers, and other professionals in the industry that looked like him. George believes that wine should be for the people and by the people - all of the people. He has created tasting experiences and events that include wine, art and music. He wants to take the boujee out of wine and Get Graped Out!

Follow George:

https://www.instagram.com/grapedout/

https://www.grapedout.com/

Follow Swirl Suite:

https://twitter.com/WineCasualHQ

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Reggie of Wine Casual

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 10:36:17 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, the whole gang chats with wine blogger Reggie Solomon of Wine Casual. Reggie has been hacking wine since 1998. He travels to different wine regions, consume multiple-forms of wine content, and regularly explore new wines at home and with family and friends. Reggie is super special to the Swirl Suite and once you hear this episode, you will see why.

Follow Reggie:

http://winecasual.com/

https://www.instagram.com/winecasual/

Follow Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Sponsor:

https://www.instagram.com/vineoftherhyme/

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Vine of the Rhyme

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 09:30:12 GMT

On this episode of The Swirl Suite, Sarita chats with two music lovers and DJs,DJ Pheelin' ItandDr. DeepCrates, who are also wine enthusiasts. Together they operate under the nameVine of the Rhyme, and this event is part of a monthly series co-hosted by rapper/lawyerTracey Leewho brings an artist's perspective to the table. (SoulBounce.com)

Follow Vine of the Rhyme:

Tickets to Malbec and Mike:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/malbec-with-mike-a-wine-pairing-x-album-listening-experience-tickets-69676154253?aff=eand

Follow Kevin:

https://www.instagram.com/djpheelinit/

Follow B:

https://www.instagram.com/drdeepcrates/

Tracey Lee:

https://www.instagram.com/traceyleeesq/

Follow Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Sponsor:

https://www.instagram.com/winenconvos/

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Wine and Convos w Tanika

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 08:36:14 GMT

The Swirl Suite has wine and convos with Tanika Mangum. Tanika is the founder of Tanika Explores, where she is on a journey to attend a wine festival in every state. While on this journey, she noticed that very few black-owned or minority-owned wine was featured. She could have set out to explore these wines on her own, but she felt that the best wine experiences are shared experienced. Wine & Convos was born.

Follow Tanika:

https://winenconvos.com/

Follow Swirl Suite:

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Sponsor:

https://www.instagram.com/cha_squared/

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The Real McCoy

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 09:58:26 GMT

ALL of the Swirl Suite comes together to talk with Cha McCoy. An engineer turned wine mogul, Cha is the Founder of Cha Squared LLC, a consulting company with a focus on tourism, gastronomy, and hospitality experiences, education and training. In 2012, she achieved her MBA in Italy; an opportunity which led her to drink and eat in close to 20 countries. As an expat, she has fostered wine relations and created experiences in the following wine countries: Italy, Spain, France, USA (California and NY), Chile, Argentina, South Africa, Hungary and now Portugal.

Follow Cha:

https://www.chamccoy.com/

https://www.sipnsharewine.net/our-story/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Sponsor:

https://www.instagram.com/sipandsharewines/

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Cubicles to Cocktails w Christa

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 23:27:17 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, Sarita & Tanisha talk with Christa Clarke Owolabi of Cubicles to Cocktails. Christa founded Cubicles to Cocktails in 2017 after experiencing gaps in her own ability to obtain professional + leadership development that met her needs. Conducting her own research and speaking with her peers, she discovered that many ambitious, millennial career women, especially women of color, faced the same issue a lack of development opportunities that address their unique career needs and the barriers they experience.

Follow Christa:

https://www.instagram.com/heychristaclarke/

https://www.instagram.com/cubiclestococktails/

https://www.cubiclestococktails.com/

Follow the Swirl Suite:

Follow Swirl Suite:

https://www.truebrands.com/wine-freezetm-cooling-cups-set-of-4-by-hostr.html

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

True Brands Cooling Cups

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Travel Blogger, Nadeen White

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 10:29:27 GMT

On this episode of The Swirl Suite, Sarita chats with world traveler, Nadeen White. Blogger by Day, Physician by Night, Nadeen believes in living life to the fullest. Her love for travel has taken her to destinations near and far. Her books are based on her award-winning travel & lifestyle blog-The Sophisticated Life. The Sophisticated Life covers affordable luxury travel, culinary travel and wine regions around the world.

Follow Nadeen:

https://www.instagram.com/thesophislife/

https://thesophisticatedlife.com/

Find Nadeen's E-books on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Nadeen-White/e/B07NPV2LZF%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share

Audacity Fest

http://audacityfest.com/

Follow Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/steven.laine/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Steven Laine - Author of Root Cause

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 09:00:12 GMT

Writer, Steven Laine joins the Swirl Suite to talk about his connection to wine and his new thriller, Root Cause.

Steven Laine is from Ontario, Canada and has dual Canadian and British citizenship. He has travelled the world working in luxury hotels for international brands including The Ritz, Hilton, Starwood, Marriott, Jumeirah and Pan Pacific. When he was Beverage Manager of a five star hotel in London, he learned all about wine and has since visited over one hundred vineyards and wineries in Napa, Sonoma, Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Switzerland, Lebanon, Australia, and South Africa. As the only North American ever invited to be a Member of the Champagne Academy, he had the privilege to visit and learn from the major Champagne Houses in France. His circle of friends is made up of winemakers, Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, restaurant managers, and wine lovers and distributors from all over the globe.

Stevens debut novel, Root Cause, will be released on February 19, 2019, published by Turner Publishing. Steven currently lives in Singapore and is now working on his next novel Dragonvine.

Follow Steven:

https://www.stevenlaine.com/

Follow Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/wachirawines/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Day 2: The Black Wine Experience

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 10:49:45 GMT

We conclude our series from Black Wine Experience with 3 major interviews!

Dr. Chris Wachira and Chadwick Spell of Wachira Wines - Wachira Wines is a woman owned winery and a culmination of the extraordinary vision and effort of Dr. Chris Wachira, the first Kenyan-born, Californian winemaker, distributor, importer and exporter. Her story is about the love of her home country and the ability to succeed through adversity. While working her way through college, earning her Doctorate, and dedicating her life to Clinical Outcomes research, Chris fell in-love with the science of winemaking. She developed a deep appreciation for the sense of community and bridges built from sharing a bottle of wine with complete strangers.
Paula Harrell of Harrell Wines - Paula, a California native was introduced to wine while studying abroad. With Napa Valley just a stones throw away from San Francisco, Harrell decided to spend time getting to know more about wine, the grapes and the process.She eventually purchased a timeshare there and began working events at different wineries and spending a lot of time with winemakers.As her affinity for wine grew, so did her desire to share what she knew with others but wasnt quite sure what that looked like outside of going wine tasting with family and friends and sharing over the dining table.For family gatherings, she became the go-to person for selecting wine and it was one particular dinner and selection that sparked it all.
Isiah Thomas of Cheurlin Champagne - NBA legend Isiah Thomas discovered champagne after winning the 1989 NBA Championship. Known for his business savvy and philanthropic endeavors as much as his storied athletic career, Isiah and his wife Lynn wanted a healthier, great tasting champagne without the added sugar. Isiah is quick to point out, it had to be reasonably priced and it definitely couldnt come with a headache the next day. It took years but thats exactly what we found in Cheurlin Champagne.

Follow:

Dr Chris & Chadwick

https://www.wachirawines.com/

Paula

https://www.instagram.com/pharrellwines/

https://pharrellwines.com/

Isiah Thomas

https://www.instagram.com/isiahthomas/

https://www.instagram.com/cheurlin1788/

https://www.cheurlin.com/

The Swirl Suite

https://www.instagram.com/mohamedmoretta/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

See

Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

BWE - Mohamed Moretta & Larry Boone

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 20:25:22 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, we chat with Mohamed Moretta and Larry Boone. MohamedMoretta has taken the entertainment industry by storm. This Dominican-Haitian- Italian from Brooklyn, New York has used his multi-cultural background to become one of the world's most innovative Songwriter - Producer- Re-mixer - DJ -On Air Personalities. And now he makes Champagne.

Lawrence Boone Selections was originally intended to be an import company offering exclusive artisan wines sourced from small family-owned wineries in Spain, but we could not find anyone to distribute our wines once we got them to the States.He was fed up and decided to take it upon himself to distribute not only his wines but all alcohol products I felt were underrepresented in the market.

Follow Mohamed

https://lekoolchampagne.com/

Follow Larry

https://www.instagram.com/booneselections/

https://www.booneselections.com/

Follow Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/ggmoney17/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Black Wine Experience - Ep 1

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 18:34:49 GMT

The Swirl Suite podcast joined The Hue Society at The Black Wine Experience in New Orleans! The entire weekend was epic and we have the audio to prove it! We talked to so many great blacks in wine. The interviews will be broken up into episodes. The first guests are vineyard manager, Brenae Royal; diversity & marketing professional, Derek Epps & winemaker, Jennifer McDonald.

Follow!

Brenae Royal - https://www.instagram.com/_cabrenae/

Derek Epps- https://www.instagram.com/iamderekepps/

Jennifer McDonald - https://www.jennydawncellars.com/?utm_source=so

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GG of Oprah Rose

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 10:43:37 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, Sarita talks spirits with GG of the Oprah Rose podcast. GG gives the scoop on her position at Remi Cointreu and whats its like working for such a big brand. She also dives into how the Oprah Rose podcast has changed through the years.

Follow GG:

https://www.instagram.com/theoprahroseshow/

Follow Swirl Suite:

thehuesociety.com/black-wine-experience/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Join us in New Orleans:

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Seth Brundle of Butter + Brown

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 09:13:00 GMT

This week on the Swirl Suite, we talk with Christopher McMullen aka Seth Brundle of cooking show, Butter and Brown. A celebrity stylist, fashion writer and collaborative designer, he describes himself as an artist who gets to paint people with beautiful clothing, having worked with some of your favorite entertainers. The Morehouse College alum didnt hone his culinary skills at a fancy cooking school. Instead, his expert skills were developed watching endless hours of Food Network and experimenting in his own kitchen like a mad scientist.

Follow Seth:

https://www.instagram.com/sethbrundle/

https://www.instagram.com/butterandbrown/

https://www.sethbrundle.com/

Follow Swirl Suite:

thehuesociety.com/black-wine-experience/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Join us in New Orleans:

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Emily Dilling of Paris Paysanne

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 23:31:13 GMT

Happy Wine Wednesday! On this episode of The Swirl Suite, Sarita & Tanisha talk with expat and fellow podcaster, Emily Dilling. Emily, originally from California, has called France home for the last fourteen years. A writer who is passionate about food and the people who grow and make it, she runs ParisPaysanne.com, a blog dedicated to discovering Paris markets and French terroir. She can often be found exploring Pariss craft coffee, beer, and food scene, tasting wine and making beer in the Loire, or growing tomatoes in her garden.

Follow Emily:

http://www.parispaysanne.com/

https://www.instagram.com/parispaysanne/?hl=en

Follow Swirl Suite:

https://www.mt.cm/summer-solstice

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Come see us at the Summer Solstice.

Join us in New Orleans:

http://thehuesociety.com/black-wine-experience/

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Drew of Old Westminster Winery

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 13:29:33 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, we chat with Drew Baker of Old Westminster Winery. We all have known Drew for many years and he is definitely wine family. He tells us how this magical journey began. He and his siblings began growing grapes and making fantastic wine. Soon after they opened a co-op winery for new winemakers, and launched a canned wine series. The list goes on. Most recently, Drew and his family are hosting the Summer Solstice, a natural wine fest, at Burnt Hill Farm on June 22nd. Leslie and Sarita & make other wine locals will be there. Listen to this episode & join us!

https://www.oldwestminster.com/

https://www.oldwestminster.com/blog/summersolstice

https://www.instagram.com/oldwestminsterwinery/

Join us at The Black Wine Experience during the 2019 Essence Fest:

theblackwineexperience.com/

Follow Swirl Suite:

https://www.instagram.com/bribookspod/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

MTY Retreat Recap

Fri, 31 May 2019 11:35:34 GMT

This is a very special episode of the Swirl Suite. Sarita joins Brionna of the Bri Books Podcast and gives intimate details of the My Taught You Retreat. It's been a month and they are still unpacking this life changing experience.

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http://bribookspod.com/

Join us at The Black Wine Experience during the 2019 Essence Fest:

https://theblackwineexperience.com/

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Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

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Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

SS Wines With Chas

Mon, 20 May 2019 13:16:34 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, we chat with Brooklyn-based creative strategist, freelance journalist and wine enthusiast, Chasity Cooper. She has written for a number of really cool publications and websites such as Essence, The Plug Daily, Vine Pair, Teen Vogue, Bustle, Elite Daily, The Grio, and many more. We talk about how she creates content and her passion for wine.

Follow Chasity on IG #WineWithChas

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Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Virginia Wine w @VAWineKnow

Wed, 15 May 2019 23:18:29 GMT

On this episode of the Swirl Suite, we talk with local wine blogger, Stacy aka @VAWineKnow. Stacy has visited more than half of Virginia's wineries and she is still learning. We talked about the growing market and where her favorite wineries are. Its summer so you guys know I asked the famous ice cream truck question.

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https://aglassafterwork.com/blog/

Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

More Kosher Wine w Alleigh

Tue, 30 Apr 2019 08:56:07 GMT

On this episode we bring back OG wine blogger, Alleigh of Glass After Work. We talk about her journey to wine blogging & she breaks down Kosher wine.

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@Alleigh77

YouTube

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Sarita @VineMeUp

Tanisha @GirlMeetsGlass

Leslie @Vino301

Glynis @Vino_Noire

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/SwirlSuite.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Check out the highly anticipated podcast app that's created for the black community. The ALIVE Podcast App is the home of Black voices - where community, culture, and creatives live.

Entrepreneurship w J

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 10:03:50 GMT

On this episode of The Swirl Suite, we discuss entrepreneurship with nail shop owner, J of Nailbed & Bar. J opened the only black owned luxury nail salon east of the river. She drops gems for days. As usual, we get to know her and what she likes to sip.

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https://www.instagram.com/j.jhavon/

http://nailbedbar.com/

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